Penang eyes more direct flights

GEORGE TOWN: Newly minted state executive councillor for Tourism, Heritage, Culture and Arts, Yeoh Soon Hin, has set a target to increase the number of direct flights into Penang to boost tourism.
"Tourism is a major source of income for Penang, especially since George Town was conferred the Unesco Heritage status in 2008," he said, adding that 50% of Penang's revenue came from the tourism sector.
"When there are more direct flights to Penang, the number of tourists will naturally increase, and this will be good for our economy. My first task will be to increase the number of direct flights."
"I will also look into improving the dissemination of information to local and foreign tourists, especially on the events that are held in the state."
Yeoh said Penang must still keep on improving and creating new things for visitors to see and explore, to increase visitor retention and to encourage return guests.
He also said places such as Butterworth, Balik Pulau and Telok Ayer Tawar should be explored further so that more activities can be created to attract even more tourists.