THE long stretch of holidays from Labour Day to Hari Raya Aidilfitri saw many domestic tourists from other states flock to Penang amidst the relaxation of the Covid-19 standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Others took advantage of the break to return to their hometowns to visit their families and friends.
Some of the favourite destinations and eating outlets, particularly on Penang island, were packed. Conspicuous was the numerous vehicles bearing outstation number plates.
Buletin Mutiara today did a random check on some of the tourist hotspots.
The cars travelling along Jalan Air Itam en route to the Penang Hill Lower Station were bumper to bumper on most occasions.
The tourists were making a beeline for the lower station to buy their railway tickets to go to the hilltop.
When met, Fazmi Fauzi, 28, said he missed Penang a lot, especially its famous food.
“I haven’t been here for the past two years due to the Covid-19 pandemic and I am glad to be back again.
“I missed the nasi kandar of course and the serenity of nature in Penang Hill.
“I have spent five days here in Penang and will go back to my hometown on Saturday,” said Fazmi, who hails from Ipoh, Perak.
Muhsinul Abrar, 23, was glad to visit Penang Hill again after a few years of hiatus.
“The place has changed a lot compared to five years ago when I last came here.
“It is properly managed now, and the green lung ecosystem is amazing.
“I have plenty of friends here in Penang and I am happy to meet them after so long,” said Muhsinul, who is from Tanjung Malim, Perak.
Over at Penang Road in the heart of town, the traffic was also moving slowly.
Many tourists were seen having the famous ais kacang and chendol at Keng Kwee Street in the sweltering heat.
According to Kent Lim, 24, ais kacang was a ‘must’ for him and his friends during their visit.
“Finally, we’ve all reached here. We have been craving it.
“After this, we will visit the heritage enclave before going to Kek Lok Si Temple in Air Itam.
“This long break is fully satisfying for all of us,” said Lim, who is from Kuala Lumpur.
Meanwhile, Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH Penang Chapter) chairman Tony Goh was upbeat about the state’s tourism outlook.
“As of now, many hotels have recorded about 80% occupancy rate since the holiday break began.
“Many tourists have flocked to Penang and we are looking forward to another influx of tourists come the Wesak Day (May 15) celebration,” he said.
Story and pix by Edmund Lee