Penang, Malaysia – 26 June 2025 – A warm Malaysian welcome greeted Cambodia Airways this morning as it celebrated the inaugural landing of its direct flight from Phnom Penh to Penang, marking a significant milestone in strengthening travel ties between two UNESCO-listed cultural gems.
The historic touchdown at Penang International Airport was celebrated with great fanfare — a ceremonial water salute, traditional cultural performances, and a festive atmosphere with gifts for arriving passengers. This symbolic welcome reflected Penang’s renowned hospitality and the growing bond between Malaysia and Cambodia.
On board this milestone flight was His Excellency Shaharuddin Onn, Ambassador of Malaysia to the Kingdom of Cambodia, highlighting the diplomatic significance of the route. The arrival was greeted on the ground by several dignitaries including YB Lee Boon Heng, State Assemblyman for Kebun Bunga, and Dato Yeoh Soon Hin, Deputy Chairman of Tourism Malaysia, further underscoring the importance of this enhanced air connection.
Also, present at the welcoming ceremony were YB Chee Yeeh Keen, State Assemblyman for Bagan Jermal; Datin Bharathi Suppiah, Director of the Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) and General Manager of Chief Minister Incorporated (CMI); Ms. Tang Xiaojun, Vice President of Cambodia Airways; Daniel Li, Deputy Director of Cambodia Airways; Lee Thai Hung, Deputy Director General (Promotion II) of Tourism Malaysia; and Mohd Ridzuan Ahmad Walid, Operations Manager of Penang International Airport, among other distinguished guests.
The new twice-weekly service—operating every Thursday and Sunday—connects Phnom Penh, the vibrant heart of Cambodia, with Penang, one of Malaysia’s most dynamic and culturally rich destinations. The route is expected to appeal to both leisure travellers and business communities, offering a convenient and efficient link between the two cities.
Founded in 2017, Cambodia Airways has quickly built a reputation for reliability, full-service quality, and distinct Khmer hospitality. With a modern fleet of Airbus A319 and A320 aircraft, the airline has operated over 17,000 flights, safely transporting more than 1.7 million passengers. In 2024 alone, the airline expanded its footprint to 22 destinations and served over 620,000 travellers.
The new connection has been warmly welcomed by Penang’s tourism and business sectors.
Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) sees the new route as a vital bridge to grow incentive travel and corporate exchanges, aligning with its strategy to position Penang as a hub for high-impact international business events.
With Phnom Penh now connected to 14 destinations through 27 flights, this new direct route is expected to drive increased visitor arrivals, support Penang’s broader economic and tourism goals, and provide Malaysians with greater access to Cambodia’s enchanting heritage, ancient temples, and emerging travel experiences.
As Cambodia Airways continues its mission to strengthen regional air connectivity, today’s launch is a celebration of progress, partnership, and shared discovery between two culturally rich nations.
