Penang sees 370% surge in Chinese tourists arrival

Penang tourism is experiencing a significant boom, with a 370% surge in arrivals from China during the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same period last year.

This growth is attributed to the relaxation of visa restrictions and an increase in direct flights from China.

Direct flights fueling tourism growth in Penang

Penang State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy, Wong Hon Wai, highlighted the impact of direct flights: “These figures only reflect arrivals via direct flights, excluding visitors arriving from other Malaysian states.”

He further elaborated on the expanded flight options: “Currently, there are 21 direct flights from various Chinese cities like Xiamen, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong.

This will be further bolstered by increased frequencies starting June 20th with China Southern Airlines flying to Penang 14 times weekly from Guangzhou.

Meanwhile, Juneyao Airlines commencing a new route with four flights per week from Shanghai.”

Industry welcomes growth, cautions on upkeep

Industry players expressed optimism about the tourism surge.

However, Dato’ Ch’ng Huck Theng, Chairman of the Association of Tourism Attractions Penang (ATAP), emphasised the importance of maintaining a positive first impression: “We need to prioritise short-term improvements like upgrading immigration, baggage claim areas, and restrooms.”

He stressed the power of word-of-mouth marketing: “Tourists need to have a positive experience that they will share with others on social media.

We need to be proactive in meeting their expectations to ensure a ‘thumbs up’ experience.”

Dato’ Khoo Boo Lim, Malaysian Association of Hotels Vice President, highlighted the need for sustainable growth: “We must ensure efficient immigration and customs services to avoid negative experiences due to increased arrivals.”

He also observed a positive impact on hotel occupancy rates, particularly due to Chinese tourists’ preference for hotel stays over Airbnbs.

Jessie Ong, Director of Overseas Living MM2H Sdn Bhd, clarified that the increase in Chinese arrivals might not significantly affect the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program, which is currently undergoing review and not accepting applications.