GEORGE TOWN: Penang's tourism sector has bounced back and exceeded expectations with a notable surge of 64.50% in passenger movement into its international airport.
State tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the data revealed a substantial increase and included both local and foreign arrivals.
"This figure saw an increase from 4.2 million in 2022 to 6.9 million last year.
"The surge indicates a significant uptick in air travel, suggesting increased demand for international and domestic flights.
"The number of international flights also increased to 259 weekly flights in December compared to 210 in December 2022," he said in a statement on Monday (Jan 29).
Wong said despite the delayed reopening of borders for China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Japan, Penang is on the road to recovering its market.
"Comparing the figures from 2019 to last year provides insights into the recovery of passenger movement after the pandemic.
"In 2019, total passenger movement stood at 8.2 million. By 2023, the number recovered to 6.9 million.
"This reflects an impressive recovery rate of 84.14%, signifying a substantial rebound in international and domestic air travel following the challenges faced in 2020 and 2021," he said.
Wong said the state's tourism industry had long been a source of job creation and economic growth.
"The increased numbers demonstrate resilience and recovery in the face of challenges, emphasising the importance of the aviation industry in fostering global connectivity and economic rejuvenation.
"It also demonstrates Penang's strategic importance in the international aviation network.
"At present, there are international direct flights to Penang from 13 cities – Singapore, Bangkok, Phuket, Guangzhou, Xiamen, Hong Kong, Medan, Jakarta, Surabaya, Banda Aceh, Taipei, Ho Chi Minh City and Doha," he said.
"March and December last year recorded the highest number of passengers at 790,486 and 666,742 (respectively).
"Penang's cruise tourism has shown remarkable recovery as well.
"Last year, the state welcomed 573,178 international passengers to its shores compared to 439,012 in 2022 and 409,943 passengers in 2019.
"The significant recovery indicates that Penang’s cruise tourism has not only returned to pre-pandemic levels but has exceeded those," he said.
