By V. Sivaji
The Penang tourism industry received an added boost as Batik Air expanded its chartered flights from Kunming to Penang from one flight per week to 3 flights a week.
Present to welcome a delegation from Kunming to Penang at a Tourism Product Promotion at the JEN Penang Georgetown by Shangri-La here was State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai.
He was welcomed by Arasu Soundarajan Head of Sales (Commercial) Batik Air Malaysia, Anthony Ang, Batik Air Sales Manager, China Region, Andy Chuah Chairman MCTA Penang Chapter, Bao Xi Xiang, Haiyou Tourism, Chairman and General Manager.
Also present was a large delegation from Kunming’s tourism industry.
A delighted Wong welcomed the group to Penang and congratulated Batik Air for the timely expansion for the Kunming-Penang route.
“Today’s gathering is truly a distinguished one, bringing together a wide spectrum of industry players from both Penang and Kunming. This includes local travel agents, inbound tour operators from Kunming, outbound travel agencies, as well as representatives from Batik Air, all of whom have come together to make this event a meaningful occasion. It is particularly encouraging to note the strong participation from travel operators across the northern region of Malaysia, such as Perak and Kedah, as well as industry partners from Medan, Indonesia, who have travelled here to engage in exchanges and business matching.
“The Kunming – Penang charter flight is operated by Batik Air and managed by Sichuan Haiyou Tourism. The service was first launched on 27 October 2025 with an initial frequency of 1 flight per week. Due to encouraging market response and growing demand, the route has already increased to 3 flights per week since 4 March 2026, steadily moving towards regular and sustainable operations. This positive development is indeed most encouraging. In terms of flight arrangements, the Kunming – Penang charter service operates under flight number OD667, currently running 3 times weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. The flight departs Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG) at 3.00 am and arrives at Penang International Airport (PEN) at 6.30 am, providing a smooth and efficient travel experience.
“Besides, the Penang – Kunming flight operates under flight number OD666, also 3 times weekly on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. The flight departs Penang International Airport at 10.40 pm and arrives at Kunming Changshui International Airport at 2.00 am the following day, offering greater flexibility and convenience for travellers between both destinations,” said Wong.
He also added that from the perspective of the tourism and aviation value chain, charter flights are not merely a supplement to aviation capacity, but an important mechanism for market cultivation and route incubation.
“The chartered flights serve as a practical “testing ground” to assess route viability and market response, while also providing a platform for airlines and tourism operators to coordinate, refine, and optimise products and operations. The Kunming – Penang charter service operated by Batik Air has now been running steadily for over 6 months, serving as a good example of the effectiveness of this mechanism,” he said.
Arasu meanwhile said that this direct flight is not only a new flight service, but also a warm bridge connecting Malaysia’s Penang and China’s Kunming, two vibrant cities full of charm and opportunities.
“The direct flight cuts the journey from over 10 hours with transfers to just around 4 hours, eliminating the trouble of transit and luggage transfer, greatly saving time for tourists and business travelers,making cross-border travel easier and faster.
“May exchanges and cooperation between Penang and Kunming grow, and the friendship between both peoples last forever. May China-Malaysia friendly relations reach a new level, and create a better future of mutual benefit hand in hand,” Arasu urged.
Guests were also entertained by a colourful troupe of dancers clad in various traditional outfits.