Penang’s international air connectivity is set for a major boost as Batik Air announces two new direct international routes linking Medan and Singapore to Penang, effective December 8, 2025.
The announcement follows a courtesy meeting between Penang State EXCO for Tourism and Creative Economy, YB Wong Hon Wai and Batik Air Head of Sales, Arasu Soundarajan in Komtar.
“These new routes will significantly enhance Penang International Airport’s regional connectivity and position Penang as a growing hub for international travel,” said Wong. “We warmly welcome Batik Air’s continued confidence in Penang as a strategic market.”
Wong also revealed that two new domestic routes—Kota Kinabalu–Penang and Kuching–Penang—are in the pipeline for 2026, strengthening air links between Peninsular and East Malaysia.
“These routes will not only enhance accessibility but also promote two-way tourism and trade between Penang and Borneo,” he said. “They’re an important step in reinforcing Penang’s role as a key aviation hub in northern Malaysia.”
New Charter Link to China – In a further expansion of its international reach, Batik Air will also launch a charter service between Kunming, Yunnan and Penang, expected to begin in late October 2025. This move is aimed at bolstering ties between Penang and Southwest China through increased travel, cultural exchange, and business opportunities.
Strategic Connectivity with Key Tourism Markets – Wong emphasized that Batik Air’s regional strategy is aligned with Penang’s tourism priorities, targeting Penang’s top three international tourist markets—Indonesia, China, and Singapore.
“Indonesia, with its close proximity and massive population, offers immense potential. China remains a key driver of outbound tourism, and Singapore, with its strong currency and high spending power, continues to support our premium tourism segment,” he said.
From January to August 2025, Penang welcomed: 255,413 visitors from Indonesia, 146,657 from China and 103,913 from Singapore
“These routes are both timely and market-driven,” Wong added. “They will support continued tourism growth, attract more business travellers, and elevate Penang’s profile as a regional hub for travel, conferences, and the creative economy.”
Looking Ahead – Wong concluded by affirming the state government’s commitment to expanding air connectivity: “We will continue to work closely with domestic and international airlines to open more direct routes and enhance Penang’s position as a globally connected, competitive hub for tourism and trade.”