GEORGE TOWN, Penang State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the airline will expand its presence in Malaysia after choosing Penang as its first destination a year ago.
“Juneyao Airlines is now expanding its footprint by officially introducing the Shanghai–Kuala Lumpur route. This move enhances air connectivity between China and Malaysia, and tickets are now open for booking.
“From a spatial economics perspective, the new route not only deepens bilateral air connectivity but also optimizes travel flow patterns for Chinese tourists visiting Malaysia,” he said in a statement.
“This twin-city route configuration forms a golden tourism loop that maximizes flexibility and convenience while strengthening the tourism synergy between Penang and Kuala Lumpur,” he added.
Wong added that the addition of the Shanghai–Kuala Lumpur route supports the development of a dual-hub system between Penang and Kuala Lumpur, enhancing the viability of ‘north-in, south-out’ or ‘south-in, north-out’ travel loops.
He said Penang’s rich historical and cultural offerings complement Kuala Lumpur’s dynamic urban experiences, creating an ideal blend and offering Chinese tourists a cost-effective and well-rounded itinerary.
“The Shanghai–Penang and Shanghai–Kuala Lumpur direct flights will work hand-in-hand, generating a synergistic effect and potentially doubling tourist traffic.
“This further strengthens Penang’s role as a regional hub and deepens the integration between Penang and Kuala Lumpur as twin gateways.
“Together, the routes connect northern and central Malaysia’s tourism resources, encouraging inter-state collaboration and mutual growth—ushering in broader prospects for Malaysia’s tourism industry,” he said.
The Shanghai–Kuala Lumpur flight, operating under flight number HO1353, will commence on June 28, departing Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) at 5:50 PM (Shanghai time) and arriving at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) at 11:45 PM (Malaysia time).
This flight will operate four times a week, on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
The return flight, HO1354, from Kuala Lumpur to Shanghai will begin on June 29, 2025, departing KUL at 12:45 AM (Malaysia time) and arriving at PVG at 6:15 AM (Shanghai time). It will also operate four times a week—on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
