GEORGE TOWN: Penang’s tourism sector has moved beyond recovery and is now entering a more mature phase, supported by sustained regional and international confidence, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said.
He said the state recorded more than 8.2 million hotel guests in 2024, reflecting a strong rebound following the pandemic.
Chow was speaking at the signing ceremony of an international partnership involving Penang-based nature learning destination Entopia.
From January to November this year, Penang International Airport handled 7.22 million passenger movements, representing a 5.94% year-on-year increase, while cruise ship arrivals continued to contribute positively to overall visitor numbers.
“These indicators underscore sustained regional and international confidence in Penang as a tourism destination,” he said.
As visitor arrivals continue to grow, Chow said the state government is placing greater emphasis on quality, distinctiveness and sustainability in its tourism strategy.
He said the Penang2030 vision remains the guiding framework for tourism development, focusing on higher-value offerings and more meaningful visitor experiences.
In this context, Chow said the planned expansion of Penang International Airport, which is expected to raise annual passenger capacity to 12 million, will enhance connectivity, attract new flight routes and support international collaborations.
“Today’s travellers are seeking more meaningful experiences. They value authenticity, learning and sustainability,” he said.
Chow added that Entopia reflects these values, and its international expansion would further strengthen Penang’s reputation as a hub for responsible and knowledge-driven tourism.
He expressed hope that Entopia’s global journey would inspire more Penang-based enterprises, particularly in tourism, education and the creative economy, to think globally, innovate boldly and scale responsibly – NST
