Penang Global Tourism unveils fresh appeal in Thailand

Penang Global Tourism (PGT) has launched an ambitious campaign, “Not the Penang You Know,” to strengthen ties with Southern Thailand and attract travellers to Penang’s diverse attractions.

Unveiled at the Experience Penang Networking Session in Hatyai, the initiative showcases lesser-known gems beyond George Town’s heritage and street food, cementing Penang’s status as a premier destination.

With Thailand among Penang’s top tourism markets, this campaign fosters cultural and economic bonds.

Penang Global Tourism’s innovative approach highlights new experiences, from wellness retreats to historical galleries, inviting Thai visitors to explore a vibrant, multifaceted Penang, accessible by road, rail, and air.

Penang Global Tourism’s strategic outreach

The Hatyai networking session, hosted by PGT, united 24 Penang-based tourism operators with Thai counterparts, including travel agents and hoteliers.

Wong Hon Wai, Penang’s tourism committee chairman, emphasised connectivity.

“The MySawasdee Train service will link Hatyai and Penang, boosting tourism,” he said.

The service, starting in Q3 2025, will enhance cross-border travel.

The campaign promotes unique attractions like Bertam Resort and Water Park, home to Malaysia’s largest ensuite pool, and Design Village, the nation’s biggest outlet mall.

The Penang History Gallery offers an immersive journey through the state’s past, appealing to culture enthusiasts.

Wong highlighted Penang’s evolving appeal. “Penang always has something new to offer,” he said.

From art spaces to cycling holidays and crafts like Nyonya kebaya making, the campaign invites exploration of this long-tail “Penang Global Tourism new attractions” narrative.

Penang International Airport reported a 41% surge in Thai arrivals in 2024, with 40 weekly flights connecting to Bangkok and Phuket.

Wong noted shared heritage, citing landmarks like Wat Chaiyamangkalaram and historical figures like Khaw Sim Bee Na Ranong, a Penang-born noble who shaped Southern Thailand.

The event fostered partnerships, with Wong stressing relationships. “Tourism thrives on contacts,” he said.

Attendees included Tourism Malaysia’s Nurul Ain Mohammad Yunus and Songkhla MP Sarttra Sripan, reinforcing bilateral collaboration.

Penang’s growing tourism influence

Penang’s proximity to Thailand, coupled with cultural ties, drives its tourism appeal. Of 1.6 million Thai visitors to Malaysia last year, 80% entered via land or train, per Tourism Malaysia.

The upcoming Hatyai-Butterworth train service will further ease travel, encouraging extended stays in Penang.

The state also positions itself as an education and MICE hub, with institutions like Sentral College attracting Thai students.

Penang’s infrastructure, including road links and direct flights, supports tourism growth.

The campaign aligns with Malaysia’s broader tourism goals, leveraging Penang’s UNESCO status and vibrant economy to draw global visitors.

PGT’s focus on diverse experiences, from wellness to crafts, caters to modern travellers seeking immersive holidays.

This strategic push strengthens Penang’s role as a cultural and economic bridge between Malaysia and Thailand.

Penang Global Tourism invites travellers to explore its refreshed offerings via www.visitpenang.gov.my.

The state encourages Thai visitors to discover its new attractions, fostering deeper cross-border connections.

As Penang Global Tourism rolls out this campaign, it sets a vibrant tone for regional tourism.

By blending heritage with innovation, Penang welcomes communities to experience its evolving charm, ensuring lasting memories for all who visit.