THE first direct flight from Yangon to Penang landed yesterday, marking a significant milestone in enhancing seamless connectivity between the two destinations and boosting tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.
Operated by Myanmar Airways International (MAI), the new route is expected to foster stronger ties between Malaysia and Myanmar.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai was present at the Penang International Airport (PIA) to welcome the inaugural flight.
“This Penang route expands MAI’s footprint in Malaysia, complementing its existing Yangon-Kuala Lumpur service, which commenced in April 2022 and currently operates 14 weekly flights,” Wong said at a press conference yesterday.
He noted the inaugural flight departed Yangon yesterday and arrived smoothly in Penang after a two-hour journey.
“This marks a historic milestone and is a testament to the growing interconnectedness of Penang and Southeast Asia,” he added.
Wong also expressed his condolences to the people of Myanmar following the recent earthquake, acknowledging the devastation and loss of lives.
The inaugural Yangon-Penang flight took off from the Yangon International Airport at 2.45pm (Yangon time) and landed in Penang at 6.15pm (Penang time).
It is expected to operate twice weekly, on Mondays and Thursdays.
The return flight departs Penang at 7.15pm and arrives in Yangon at 7.45pm (Yangon time).
Relatively, Wong highlighted the deep historical ties between Penang and Myanmar, evident in several Penang road names such as Rangoon Road (former name of Yangon), Irrawaddy Road (named after the Irrawaddy River), Mandalay Road, Tavoy Road, and Salween Road.
He also emphasised the potential for greater economic and industrial collaboration, which would complement Penang’s robust industrial ecosystem.
Myanmar Ambassador to Malaysia Aung Soe Win expressed his delight over the new direct connection.
“This is a symbol of cooperation and enhanced connectivity between both cities,” he said, calling the route a significant step forward to greater things to come.
Aung added that the flight is expected to boost medical tourism in Penang, thanks to its advanced healthcare facilities and resources.
He also acknowledged MAI’s humanitarian role, noting the airline’s efforts to dispatch emergency supplies to areas affected by the recent earthquake in Myanmar.
“We are grateful to the Malaysian government for the assistance provided during this challenging time,” he said.
A cake-cutting ceremony was held to commemorate the milestone.
Among those present were MAI chief executive officer Tanes Kumar, Penang Global Tourism (PGT) chief executive officer Ooi Chok Yan, and Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) Penang Chapter Chairman Datuk Tony Goh.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Siew Chia En