By V. Sivaji
In the dynamic landscape of Penang’s tourism sector, Ms Carolyn Leong Mei Ching (DJN) has emerged as a respected leader and strong advocate for the travel industry..
As the current President (Chairman) of the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Penang Chapter, Leong has been instrumental in revitalising and strengthening the tourism ecosystem in Penang following the challenges faced by the industry in recent years.
With her leadership and dedication, Leong is set to take on an even greater responsibility as she prepares to serve as President of the MATTA Penang Chapter for the 2026–2029 term, continuing her commitment to advancing the state’s travel and tourism sector.
Leong is also the Chief Executive Officer of Angel Tours Sdn Bhd, one of the established tour and travel operators in Penang with decades of experience in inbound and outbound travel services, airline ticketing and travel management.
Armed with a Bachelor of Business degree from Monash University, Leong combines academic knowledge with practical industry experience. Her leadership within Angel Tours has helped the company remain competitive and relevant in an increasingly globalised tourism environment.
Her long-standing involvement in the tourism sector has given her deep insights into market trends, international travel demands and the evolving needs of travellers.
Leong assumed the role of chairman of the MATTA Penang Chapter in July 2023, leading a team of industry professionals committed to supporting travel agencies and strengthening the tourism network in the state.
Under her leadership, the chapter has worked closely with key tourism stakeholders such as Penang Global Tourism (PGT), the Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) and Tourism Malaysia to promote Penang as a premier travel destination.
One of her key focuses has been fostering collaboration across the tourism ecosystem, from travel agents and airlines to government agencies and hospitality providers. Through such partnerships, MATTA Penang aims to boost visitor arrivals, strengthen industry resilience and ensure sustainable growth for tourism businesses.
Leong has also been actively involved in organising the MATTA Fair Penang, an important travel exhibition that connects consumers with travel agencies offering a wide range of holiday packages and travel services.
Beyond industry promotion, Leong has championed initiatives that strengthen the travel community and give back to society. Under her leadership, MATTA Penang has organised networking events to encourage collaboration among industry players, as well as corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes benefiting local communities.
These activities include outreach programmes for underprivileged children and charitable contributions to community homes, reflecting the association’s commitment not only to tourism development but also to social responsibility.
As she prepares to lead the MATTA Penang Chapter for the 2026–2029 term, Leong’s vision centres on strengthening the resilience and competitiveness of Penang’s tourism industry. Her priorities include: Expanding international market outreach, Strengthening collaboration among tourism stakeholders, Supporting MATTA members in adapting to evolving travel trends and Promoting sustainable and responsible tourism practices
With Penang continuing to attract global attention as a cultural, culinary and heritage destination, Leong believes that close cooperation between government agencies, tourism bodies and industry players will be essential in sustaining long-term growth.
Leong’s journey reflects dedication, experience and passion for the tourism industry. Through her leadership within MATTA Penang and her professional expertise in the travel sector, she continues to play a key role in shaping the future of tourism in Penang and Malaysia.
In the meantime, MATTA Fair 2026 will be held on April 25-26 at the Penang Waterfront Convention Centre (PWCC), expected to be bigger and better.