Chinese tourist arrivals to Penang in 2024 jumped to 218.86 percent compared to the previous year, with China now emerging as one of the state's largest international tourism markets.
Penang Tourism and Creative Economy EXCO, Wong Hon Wai, stated that the increase was supported by the state government's initiatives by conducting active promotions through digital platforms and strengthening direct air access to Penang.
Hon Wai said that the number of Chinese tourist arrivals through the Penang International Airport (LTAPP) in 2024 would increase to 120,245 from 37,711 in 2023.
Hon Wai commented on this statistic showing a positive increase compared to 2022 of 5,918, proving Penang as a major international market for Chinese tourists.
He discussed among the efforts was the addition of seven new flights from China to Penang involving Xiamen Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, Shanghai Airlines, Sichuan Airlines, Hong Kong Express, Juneyao Airlines and AirAsia.
Furthermore, the government has also established partnerships with online travel agencies (OTAs) and airlines, participated in travel fairs in China and carried out advertising in popular mediums.
Other strategies include state authorities organising introductory visits for travel agents from China to promote destinations such as Balik Pulau, Georgetown and Bukit Bendera.
