Penang: Penang is strengthening its position as a growing regional travel hub, with Penang International Airport (LTAPP) recording nearly two million passenger movements in the first quarter of this year, marking a 69.55 per cent increase compared to the same period last year.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said during the same period, the international passengers rose by over 80 per cent, while domestic numbers grew by more than 57 per cent. Flight frequencies are also rising 20.53 per cent for international flights and 30.28 per cent for domestic routes. Visitor arrivals from international markets have shown strong growth, with China recording a 102.47 per cent increase.
Meanwhile, arrivals from India recorded a 108.73 per cent rise, while arrivals from Japan increased by 24.7 per cent, followed by the United States at 17.35 per cent and the United Kingdom at 15.82 per cent. Wong Hon Wai highlighted these statistics at the opening of the Matta Fair Penang 2025 at Setia SPICE Arena, Bayan Lepas.
He pointed out that over the past 18 months, Penang has made progress in strengthening international air connectivity with 14 new direct international flight routes. Direct flights reduce travel time, lower costs, and attract more international visitors. The increase in international visitors has boosted hotel occupancy rates and invigorated the food and retail industries, reflecting growth in the local tourism economy.
Touching on Matta Fair Penang 2025, Wong noted an important new feature at this year's fair is the Domestic Tourism Zone, introduced for the first time in Penang's edition of Matta Fair. This initiative aims to encourage more Malaysians to explore the country's beauty, highlighting the potential of local tourism.
The two-day Matta Fair Penang 2025, which kicked off today, features 258 booths representing 90 organisations from various segments of the travel and tourism industry. Among the participants are 60 tour and travel agencies, one national tourist office, four state government tourist offices, 11 hotels and resorts, one theme park, and one airline.