MALAYSIA and China have shared close diplomatic relations in cultural exchange, education, tourism and bilateral trade since 1974.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the close cooperation with China benefitted Penang.
“The state has maintained a solid and close relationship with China.
“We look forward to having more exchanges and growing our friendship.
“The state’s Experience Penang Year 2020 is aimed at welcoming visitors to Penang to enjoy its natural surroundings and to know its people,” Chow said in his speech during the New Year reception dinner in Equatorial Hotel today.
He said that the state had developed a blueprint for the tourism industry which would chart the industry’s development and direction for the next 10 years.
He was confident that the state could draw more tourists from China to Penang, thanks to the vigorous promotions taking place.
“Our relationship has resulted in many direct flights between Penang and the cities in China. Currently, we have direct flights from Guangzhou and Kunming to Penang.
“We also have the Changsha-Quanzhou-Penang route. The most recent one is the direct flight from Shenzhen,” Chow said.
Also present were the consul-general of China to Penang Lu Shiwei, Kedah’s representative Tan Kok Yew, Perak’s representative Yong Choo Kiong, Perlis Legislative Assembly speaker Datuk Hamdan Bahari and leaders from the communities.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix Law Suun Ting
Video by Darwina Mohd Daud