In offering additional connectivity between China and Malaysia, Juneyao Airlines launches the Shanghai–Kuala Lumpur Direct Route, Complementing Shanghai–Penang to Form a Golden Twin-City Tourism Loop.
Penang State EXCO for Tourism and Creative Economy, YB Wong Hon Wai announced the exciting development for Malaysia’s tourism sector:
“The Penang State Government has received official confirmation from Juneyao Airlines regarding the launch of its new direct flight between Shanghai and Kuala Lumpur.”
“Exactly one year after choosing Penang as its first Malaysian destination to launch operations, Juneyao Airlines is now expanding its footprint by officially introducing the Shanghai–Kuala Lumpur route. This move enhances air connectivity between China and Malaysia, and tickets are now open for booking.”
“From a spatial economics perspective, the new route not only deepens bilateral air connectivity but also optimizes the travel flow pattern for Chinese tourists visiting Malaysia. With this new connection, travelers can fly directly from Shanghai to Penang, journey southward to Kuala Lumpur, and return to Shanghai—or take the reverse route, flying into Kuala Lumpur, heading north to Penang, and departing from there. This twin-city route configuration forms a golden tourism loop that maximizes flexibility and convenience while strengthening the tourism synergy between Penang and Kuala Lumpur.” he said.
Wong further added that the addition of the Shanghai–Kuala Lumpur route supports the development of a dual-hub system between Penang and Kuala Lumpur. This enhances the viability of ‘north-in, south-out’ or ‘south-in, north-out’ travel loops.
“Penang’s rich historical and cultural offerings complement Kuala Lumpur’s dynamic urban experiences, creating an ideal blend and offering Chinese tourists a cost-effective and well-rounded itinerary.”
He emphasized that “the Shanghai–Penang and Shanghai–Kuala Lumpur direct flights will work hand-in-hand, generating a synergistic effect and potentially doubling tourist traffic. This further strengthens Penang’s role as a regional hub and deepens the integration between Penang and Kuala Lumpur as twin gateways. Together, the routes connect northern and central Malaysia’s tourism resources, encouraging inter-state collaboration and mutual growth—ushering in broader prospects for Malaysia’s tourism industry.”
The Shanghai–Kuala Lumpur flight, operating under flight number HO1353, will commence on June 28, 2025, departing Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) at 5:50 PM (Shanghai time) and arriving at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) at 11:45 PM (Malaysia time). This flight will operate four times a week—on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
The return flight, HO1354, from Kuala Lumpur to Shanghai will begin on June 29, 2025, departing KUL at 12:45 AM (Malaysia time) and arriving at PVG at 6:15 AM (Shanghai time). It will also operate four times a week—on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
Juneyao Airlines is one of only three carriers to choose Penang as its first destination when entering the Malaysian market. The other two are Flydubai and Hong Kong Express. This choice underscores Penang’s importance in the regional aviation market and reflects Juneyao Airlines’ strong confidence in Penang’s tourism and economic potential.”
“Penang was not only Juneyao Airlines’ initial entry point into Malaysia, but also its first strategic base in the local market. Over the past year, Juneyao’s successful operations in Penang have proven the immense potential of this market and laid a solid foundation for further expansion.
The move by Juneyao Airlines is timely in view of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.