Penang strengthens West Asia tourism through airline partnerships, Arabic content, and health tourism promotion, with Chinese arrivals surging 520%
GEORGE TOWN: Penang is intensifying efforts to capture the West Asian tourism market through strategic partnerships with airlines and travel agencies.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said collaborations are underway with operators in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Oman.
Penang has participated in international exhibitions like the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai to showcase its tourism offerings.
Direct flights to Doha via Qatar Airways and to Dubai via Flydubai were launched over the past two years to serve this market.
Digital campaigns tailored for West Asian tourists highlight Muslim-friendly amenities, halal food, and family facilities.
Promotional content is being translated into Arabic for distribution through social media and regional travel portals.
Health tourism is another focus, with promotions for internationally accredited hospitals and comprehensive check-up packages.
Wong was responding to a query from Bukhori Ghazali (PN-Penang Tunggal) about strategies to attract West Asian tourists.
Meanwhile, Chinese tourist arrivals surged 520.2% between January and September this year.
Arrivals from China jumped from 26,056 in 2023 to 161,599 in 2025, making China the fastest-growing market.
Indonesia remained the top source with 284,364 arrivals, a 12.3% increase from 2023.
Penang is also positioning itself as a regional gastronomic hub through various initiatives.
The Penang International Food Festival brings together local entrepreneurs and chefs to showcase culinary diversity.
Inclusion in the MICHELIN Guide Malaysia and heritage nominations for traditional dishes have boosted its profile. – BERNAMA
