More accolades flow in for Penang as it was named in “The Best Places in the World to Travel to in 2027” list by National Geographic.
Sharing this great news was State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai.
“Penang has once again earned international recognition, having been named by National Geographic in the list of “The Best Places in the World to Travel to in 2027”, which highlights 25 must-visit destinations and travel experiences around the globe. It is worth emphasising that Penang is the only city in Malaysia and Southeast Asia to be featured on this prestigious list.
“The Best Places in the World to Travel to in 2027” list on 20 October 2026, featuring 25 destinations and travel experiences that deserve a place on travellers’ calendars in the year ahead. Penang is proud to be among the destinations featured in this prestigious annual list, which offers travellers inspiration and compelling reasons to explore the world in the coming year,” he said.
Wong said Penang’s inclusion followed a robust nominating, researching and reporting process, with the destination selected by National Geographic’s team of travel experts and Nat Geo Traveler’s international editorial teams.
National Geographic describes Penang as: “Penang state gets much of its character from the push and pull between Penang Island and mainland Seberang Perai. Starting on Penang Island, travelers can drift from the UNESCO-protected streets of urban George Town to rainforest-fringed beaches, then cross the Penang Strait to the mainland, where rural villages called kampongs and winding, mangrove-filled rivers sit alongside modern industrial hubs.”
He noted that National Geographic’s globally recognised brand, international magazine and digital platforms, and acclaimed factual storytelling have long inspired audiences of all ages to explore the world, deepen their understanding of it and care for the planet.
“The list of “The Best Places in the World to Travel to in 2027” by National Geographic continues to spark curiosity and a spirit of discovery among travellers worldwide, encouraging them to seek out the distinctive experiences and attractions that destinations around the world have to offer,” he said.
Wong added that Penang had previously been featured in National Geographic’s 2025 coverage of best island in South-East Asia for food, in recognition of its celebrated culinary heritage.
“Being featured once again by National Geographic further reinforces Penang’s appeal as an international tourism destination. It reflects the island’s distinctive character and the experiences that continue to make it attractive to visitors from around the world,” he said.
Wong said inclusion in a travel recommendation list of such international reach and editorial standing would be beneficial in raising Penang’s global profile and strengthening its appeal to international travellers.
“More importantly, this international recognition is a testament to the dedication, close collaboration and sustained efforts of Penang’s tourism industry stakeholders, who have worked tirelessly to develop and promote our destination,” he said.
He emphasised that the recognition belonged to the entire Penang tourism industry, including tourism operators and relevant organisations that had worked together to advance the state’s tourism sector.
“This honour belongs to all our tourism industry stakeholders. Their collective commitment, collaboration and perseverance have contributed to Penang’s continued development as a tourism destination,” he said.
Wong added that the Penang state government would continue to uphold the principle of striving for excellence and continuous improvement, while working diligently to strengthen the state’s tourism industry.
“We will continue to enhance Penang’s tourism brand, raise its international profile and strengthen its appeal, with the aim of welcoming more international visitors to experience all that Penang has to offer,” he said.
The list of “The Best Places in the World to Travel to in 2027” by National Geographic is as follows (in no particular order):
1. Penang, Malaysia
2. Vestland, Norway
3. Luxor, Egypt
4. Madison, Wisconsin
5. Puerto Rico
6. Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland
7. Niigata, Japan
8. Chengdu, China
9. Pacific Coast Highway, California
10. Jaipur, India
11. Grenada
12. Salvador, Brazil
13. Cape Froward, Chile
14. Santander, Spain
15. Normandy, France
16. Southern Ozarks, Missouri and Arkansas
17. Halifax, Nova Scotia
18. The Transcaucasian Trail, Armenia
19. Melbourne, Australia
20. Leipzig, Germany
21. Baltimore, Maryland
22. Malawi
23. Maya Ka’an, Mexico
24. Tricity, Poland
25. Kuélap, Chachapoyas, Peru
26. Catalina Island (Readers’ Choice)
Congratulations to Penang for making its name in the world tourism news again !