By V. Sivaji
Penang’s efforts to promote tourism for the state in China received a further boost when Juneyao Airlines and Penang Global Tourism (PGT) signed a memorandum to this effect.
The airline commenced its direct flights to the Penang International Airport on May 31, 2024.
Juneyao Airlines will further ramp up their flights schedule to offer daily connection by June 22, 2024.
More interesting, Penang is the only State in Malaysia that Juneyao Airlines is providing direct flight to and fro Shanghai.
Present at the signing ceremony was Penang State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai, PGT chief executive officer Ooi Chok Yan and Juneyao Airlines general manager Steven Goh.
Others present to witness the signing was the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China HE Zhou Youbin, Penang director for MOTAC Dr Annuar Mohamed, Penang Chief Minister Incorporated (CMI) general manager, Datin S Barathi, Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Penang Chapter) chairman Ms Carolyn Leong among others.
Several KOLs and journalists from Shanghai were also flown in for the ceremony.
In his address, Wong extended his warm welcome to their partners from Juneyao Airlines for the significant collaboration that aims to strengthen cultural, economic and tourism ties between the two regions.
“Penang is immensely honoured to be the chosen city for the inaugural Juneyao Airlines aviation endeavours in Malaysia.
“Today’s memorandum marks the beginning of a new chapter in our relationship with Juneyao Airlines and enriches the experience of travellers from both Penang and Shanghai.
“In the coming days, PGT and Juneyao Airlines will embark on a series of cross promotional campaigns showcasing the best of Penang”, shared Wong.
He also said that Juneyao Airlines’ extensive social media presence, especially on popular platforms among Chinese travellers such as XiaoHongShu, Weibo, WeChat will bring more awareness.
Meanwhile, Juneyao Airlines is presently utilizing its A320 model aircraft for this Shanghai- Penang route. They are flying four times a week namely Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays to Penang.
