Penang’s VMY2026 plan includes ‘Beyond George Town’ programme, agro-tourism, river tours, and sustainable initiatives to attract global visitors.
GEORGE TOWN: The Penang government has drafted a comprehensive plan to introduce new tourism products and experiences for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the ‘Beyond George Town’ programme will extend tourism focus to Seberang Perai.
It will be implemented through agro-tourism packages, river tourism and food tourism such as culinary trails in Bukit Mertajam, Kepala Batas and Nibong Tebal.
Emphasis will also be placed on nature-based and sustainable tourism including turtle conservation at Pantai Kerachut, mangrove forest tours and agricultural tourism.
“We will also enhance creative and living heritage tourism through traditional cooking workshops, handicrafts and community art activities,” he said in a written state assembly reply.
From a promotional angle, Wong said Penang will execute a global marketing campaign based on digital content and collaborations with private sector and international influencers.
He added that the state will strengthen partnerships with airlines, online travel agencies and international tour operators to launch special packages.
Simultaneously, sustainable tourism management is being prioritised through a real-time information system to monitor tourist density at heritage sites.
He explained that all measures are implemented in line with the national VMY2026 strategy with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture.
MOTAC is providing various support grants for tourism, cultural and arts events for which state government agencies can apply.
With the themes “Malaysia Truly Asia” and “Surreal Experiences,” VMY2026 aims to invite the world to explore Malaysia’s unique culture and natural beauty. – Bernama
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