PENANG, Dec 8, 2025 – Penang’s role as a key northern aviation hub received another lift today as Batik Air launched direct flights to Singapore and Medan from Penang International Airport (PEN), widening the state’s regional reach ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
The two new routes strengthen the airline’s network in the north and tap into strong demand from both markets. Singapore continues to lead Malaysia’s international arrivals, charting 14 million visitors between January and August this year – up 18.1% from 2024 – making the Penang–Singapore sector a timely addition for leisure, business and weekend travellers.
The Penang–Medan link, meanwhile, is expected to further drive medical and wellness tourism from Indonesia, offering passengers easier access to Penang’s renowned hospitals and healthcare services while supporting growth across the northern corridor.
Batik Air chief executive officer Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy said Penang has long served as a strategic base for the airline, and the new services complement existing flights to Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta.
“These routes reinforce Penang’s position as a northern hub and provide direct access to key regional markets,” he said. “With Visit Malaysia 2026 around the corner, enhanced connectivity will play a crucial role in welcoming more visitors and supporting tourism, business and medical travel in the region.”
Penang executive councillor for tourism and creative economy, YB Wong Hon Wai, said the expansion reflects the growing confidence airlines have in Penang’s tourism and economic potential.
“New connections to Singapore and Medan will further strengthen Penang’s standing as the main gateway to northern Malaysia,” he said. “As we gear up for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and Malaysia Medical Tourism Year 2026, we look forward to building a more seamless and robust travel ecosystem with our airline partners.”
The routes would boost Malaysia’s visibility and support the VM2026 target of 47 million international tourist arrivals.
“With Penang now more accessible to travellers, its unique heritage, natural landscapes and attractions will appeal strongly to international visitors seeking enriching travel experiences,” he said.
The introduction of both routes marks another step in strengthening Penang’s connectivity, bringing the northern gateway closer to key regional centres and opening new opportunities for tourism, business and medical travel.
