PENANG International Airport recorded a significant rise in foreign arrivals in 2024, with a notable increase in visitors from China, Thailand, and Taiwan.
However, Singapore was the only country among the top ten to register a slight decline, according to data from the Immigration Department of Malaysia, Penang branch.
Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said Indonesia remained the top source of international visitors, with 369,088 arrivals in 2024, a 6.74% increase from 345,786 in 2023.
“Meanwhile, Singapore, the second-largest market, recorded a 4.55% decline in arrivals, dropping from 186,353 in 2023 to 177,882 in 2024.
“However, this figure only accounts for arrivals at Penang International Airport (PIA).
“Tourists from Singapore may have also travelled to Penang via other modes of transport, such as cruises or land routes, which are not included in this data,” he told a media conference at his office in Komtar today.
China saw the most dramatic increase, with arrivals surging by 218.86%, from 37,711 in 2023 to 120,245 in 2024. Other notable increases were recorded for Taiwan (19.34%), Thailand (41.28%), and the United Kingdom (27.14%).
Wong highlighted the positive impact of these rising numbers on the state’s economy.
“The significant growth in arrivals, particularly from China and Thailand, reflects Penang’s increasing appeal as a global tourism destination. We must continue enhancing our tourism offerings and connectivity to sustain this momentum.
“The sharp rise has been attributed to several key factors, including Malaysia’s visa-free travel policy for Chinese tourists, collaborations with airlines to improve connectivity, aggressive tourism campaigns, extensive roadshows, and social media promotions,” he said.
The United States, Australia, and Japan also saw modest growth, while arrivals from ‘Other Commonwealth Countries’ increased by 7.13%.
Wong said that looking ahead, the state anticipates India would break into the PIA’s Top 10 foreign arrivals in 2025, especially with the direct flight from Chennai to Penang.
The improved connectivity is expected to attract more Indian tourists, further boosting the state’s tourism sector.
Also present at the media conference were Penang Global Tourism chief executive officer Ooi Chok Yan, Penang Global Tourism senior manager Pauline Yoon, and Dreamz Productions Events Management Sdn Bhd founder and director Cheah WY.
Story by Christopher Tan