PENANG is eagerly anticipating a surge in tourism with the forthcoming expansion and enhancement project at the Penang International Airport (PIA), coupled with the installation of supplementary facilities.
According to Wong Hon Wai, chairman of the Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee, these enhancements will significantly elevate the overall travel experience for air travellers.
“At present, we boast direct connections to 15 international destinations and eight domestic destinations from the PIA. Furthermore, the airport serves as a hub for 18 airlines.
“As recently emphasised, the expansion and upgrading project of the airport is slated to commence in the third quarter of this year,” he told a media conference at his office in Komtar today.
Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) advertised the pre-qualification or tender notice of contractor on March 8.
Wong also provided an update on the construction progress of the link bridge, which will connect the PIA with the multistorey car park building, noting that it is nearing completion.
“We anticipate it will be operational by early May of this year,” he said.
To enhance security measures and streamline processes, the PIA will be equipped with a body scanner and four additional luggage scanners.
Wong mentioned that currently, there are two luggage scanners operational at the PIA, with plans to remove the older one.
Also highlighted at the media conference was the upcoming MATTA Fair Penang 2024, to be held at Setia SPICE Arena and the Concourse area on April 27 and 28.
The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Penang Chapter chairman Carolyn Leong said some 40,000 visitors are expected to throng the event.
“Registration for exhibitors has concluded. We extend our gratitude to all exhibitors for their unwavering support. They will be fully utilising both the arena and concourse areas,” she said.
Leong also announced RHB Banking Group as the exclusive platinum sponsor of MATTA Fair Penang 2024. Malaysia Airlines (MAS) is the official airline of the fair.
Customers who make purchases exceeding RM300 (for domestic destinations) or RM1,000 (for international destinations) qualify for the Buyer’s Lucky Draw.
Lucky draw prizes include flight tickets, hotel stays, dining vouchers, and others.
Also present at the press conference were Penang Global Tourism (PGT) chief executive officer Ooi Chok Yan, Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) Penang chairman Datuk Tony Goh, Tourism Malaysia Northern Region director Shahrul Aman Sabir Ahmad, Motac (Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture) Penang director Dr Annuar Mohamed and other key stakeholders.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Siew Chia En