CJMY
Penang Hill’s iconic funicular railway service is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, and Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow believes it should serve as a driving force for the Penang Hill Corporation (PHC) to achieve greater things.
The focus now is to elevate Penang Hill‘s popularity not only within Malaysia but also on a global scale as a preferred eco-tourism destination. Despite the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, Penang Hill has shown resilience, and the PHC aims to build on its success.
Boosting Penang Hill’s tourism potential
The tourism industry, like many others, suffered a significant blow during the Covid-19 pandemic. However, Penang Hill witnessed a remarkable recovery and resurgence during the post-pandemic era.
In 2022 alone, the hill recorded a staggering 326% increase in visitors, with a total of 1,486,269 people exploring its beauty compared to 455,292 in 2021. This achievement showcases the PHC’s dedication and sets the stage for even greater accomplishments in the future.
Various initiatives have contributed to the increased visitor numbers, such as the Penang Hill Festival, which celebrates the hill’s unique offerings and attracts tourists from near and far.
The Penang Hill Heritage Forest Challenge and the Trash Free Hill campaigns have also played a crucial role in preserving the natural beauty of the hill while promoting sustainable tourism practices.
Penang Hill Gallery @ Edgecliff: A gateway to nature and knowledge
One of the latest attractions on Penang Hill is the Penang Hill Gallery @ Edgecliff. This exciting addition showcases the hill’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage, while also serving as an education center.
Divided into five sections, including the time tunnel, biodiversity, heritage, funicular, and culture, the gallery offers visitors an immersive experience.
The Penang Hill Gallery @ Edgecliff stands out as one of Malaysia’s historic buildings that have achieved the Green Building Index Non-Residential Existing Building (NREB) Historic Building Tool certification.
With its informative displays and stunning natural surroundings, the gallery is expected to attract even more visitors to Penang Hill and provide them with a deeper understanding of the hill’s significance.
Chow expressed his gratitude to the PHC board of directors, staff, and other relevant bodies for their dedication to maintaining Penang Hill as a preferred tourism destination. Their collective efforts have contributed to the hill’s success and continued popularity among both local and international visitors.
As part of the anniversary celebration, PHC staff members who have served for more than 10 years were recognized and rewarded for their contributions. Their commitment and hard work have been instrumental in ensuring the smooth operation and preservation of Penang Hill’s natural beauty.
Source: Buletin Mutiara
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