Penang has taken another significant step in strengthening its international tourism presence with the official launch of the Penang Durian Travel Package in Hong Kong, marking the first time a comprehensive Penang tourism package centred around durian experiences has been introduced in the market.
The launch was officiated by Penang State EXCO for Tourism and Creative Economy, YB Wong Hon Wai, and attended by YB Joseph Ng Soon Siang, ADUN Air Itam; Ooi Chok Yan, Chief Executive Officer of Penang Global Tourism (PGT); Yoganthiran Manikam, Director of Tourism Malaysia Hong Kong; Gary Chu, Product Manager of Wing On Travel; and Andy Cheung, Senior District Branch Manager of Wing On Travel.
The initiative is a collaboration between Tourism Malaysia Hong Kong Office, Penang Global Tourism (PGT), and Wing On Travel, one of Hong Kong’s leading travel agencies, aimed at promoting Penang’s unique durian tourism offerings to the Hong Kong market.
Speaking at the launch, Wong highlighted that Hong Kong remains one of Penang’s key international visitor markets, with travellers from the city known for their appreciation of culinary experiences, cultural heritage, and immersive travel offerings.
“This collaboration represents a milestone for Penang tourism. For the first time, we are packaging one of Penang’s most distinctive seasonal attractions — our world-renowned durian — into a dedicated tourism experience specifically tailored for the Hong Kong market,” he said.
Wong noted that Penang’s durian tourism industry has evolved beyond fruit consumption into a unique experiential tourism product that combines gastronomy, agriculture, nature, and local culture.
“Visitors do not simply come to Penang to eat durian. They come to experience it — whether through durian buffets featuring premium varieties such as Musang King, Black Thorn and Red Prawn, curated durian tasting sessions, orchard visits, or immersive countryside experiences in Balik Pulau,” he said.
He added that Penang’s durian is distinguished by its unique terroir, with orchards predominantly located on the hills surrounding Balik Pulau, Penang Hill and Seberang Perai. The combination of sea breeze, fertile soil, tropical climate, and traditional cultivation methods contributes to the distinctive flavour profile that has earned Penang durians international recognition.
“Penang is the only state in Malaysia where durians are cultivated on an island. Many orchard owners continue to practise the traditional method of allowing fruits to ripen naturally on the tree and harvesting them only after they fall, preserving the fruit’s authentic flavour and quality,” Wong said.
As part of the initiative, Hong Kong travellers can now participate in the newly introduced 5-Day Penang Culinary & Sightseeing Durian Feast Tour, which combines luxury accommodation, unlimited durian tasting experiences, orchard visits, cultural attractions, and culinary exploration.
Wong said the initiative aligns with preparations for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and Penang’s broader strategy to diversify tourism offerings beyond heritage and food tourism.
“Penang offers visitors a unique blend of culture, creativity, lifestyle, nature, and gastronomy. From the historic streets of George Town to the durian orchards of Balik Pulau, Penang continues to offer experiences that encourage visitors to return time and time again,” he said.
Wong also extended an invitation to Hong Kong travellers to visit Penang during the current durian season and experience the state’s distinctive tropical charm firsthand.
The launch forms part of ongoing efforts by Penang Global Tourism and Tourism Malaysia to strengthen visitor arrivals from Hong Kong and position Penang as one of Asia’s leading experiential tourism destinations. The delegation’s visit to Hong Kong also reflects Penang’s continued commitment to expanding its presence in key international markets through strategic partnerships and targeted tourism promotions.