Penang’s tourism outlook is growing tremendously well following the introduction of numerous direct flights to the island lately.
Known for its food haven and heritage enclave, Penang has seen a surge in international visitors over the years.
Several direct flights to Penang have been introduced recently, including Juneyao Airlines’ inaugural flight from Shanghai Pudong International Airport, FlyDubai Airlines’ flight from Dubai, and several other direct flights from cities in China.
In response to this, several tourism operators have expressed their delight at the series of direct flights to Penang.
According to Datuk Chng Huck Theng, chairman of the Association of Tourism Attractions Penang (ATAP), domestic tourism has received a significant boost with the implementation of numerous direct flights.
“This helps to promote the hospitality industry, as well as the state’s economy. However, we need to improve our airport’s environment as tourists form their first impressions upon arrival.
“The airport’s expansion plan is of utmost importance in the long term. We need to have various signages for the convenience of the international tourists upon their arrival.
Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) Penang chapter chairman Datuk Tony Goh noted that the direct flights initiative has injected new vitality into the state’s tourism sector.
“Many of our hotels here have staff who are well-versed in various languages to communicate with tourists.
“Penang has now become one of the main destinations for tourists to visit in the future, but we need to upgrade our airport facilities to ensure a seamless experience,” he said.
Another tourism operator, who runs a tourism agency, expressed optimism about the sector’s recovery following the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We have incurred losses over the years, but the efforts by the state tourism authorities have revitalised the sector,” said the tourism agency manager known as Tan.
Story by Edmund Lee