Yeoh (standing) witnessing the MOU signing held at the Prestige Hotel, George Town, Penang recently

By V. Sivaji

Penang become the first state in the country to collaborate with Ctrip and Trip.com, Asia’s leading online travel agency to boost inbound tourism.

On hand to sign the memorandum of understanding was the director of Penang Global Tourism, Ooi Chok Yan and the general manager of Ctrip destination marketing, Edison Chen.

State exco for Tourism Development, Arts, Culture and Heritage, Yeoh Soon Hin was also present to witness the ceremony.

Also present was state director for the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Jonathan Freddy Bagang and Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH Penang Chapter) chairman, Khoo Boo Lim..

The ceremony was held at the Prestige Hotel where more than 150 industry players gathered.

Tour & Travel industry players pose for a group picture

Through the agreement, Chinese travellers will not only be introduced to top destinations in Penang and Malaysia but also to South East Asia.

Furthermore, the aim is to attract tourists from other countries and regions like Singapore, South Korea, Japan and Hong Kong.

“This partnership will also help to boost “Experience Penang 2020” and also Visit Malaysia Year 2020 which is around the corner.

“We are hopeful and confident that with this collaboration with Ctrip and Trip.com, more better things are on the way for our tourism industry players,” said Yeoh in his address.

Meanwhile, Chen said that he is confident that Penang will become a world-class destination with its various attractions and food haven it is known to be.

“We aim to strengthen the image of Penang in general and promote it to new markets,” said Chen.