Penang State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy, YB Wong Hon Wai officiated the India-Malaysia Tourism Roadshow held at the Gurney Bay Hotel thi morning.
On hand to welcome him was Mr Hitesh J Rajpal, Deputy High Commissioner of India to Malaysia along with Dr Vivekanand T S, First Secretary High Commission of India in Malaysia and the Indian tourism delegation.
Wong in his address welcomed the Indian delegation to Penang and shared his appreciation towards the High Commission of India in Malaysia for organising this initiative and for choosing Penang as one of the destinations for this important engagement with the tourism industry players.
“Penang and India share a relationship that goes far beyond tourism. Our connection is deeply rooted in history, culture, trade and people-to-people ties that span generations.
“These historical links are still visible today in the streets of George Town. Names such as Madras Lane, Tamil Street, and Malabar Street stand as reminders of the longstanding presence and contributions of the Indian community to Penang’s development. This shared heritage has shaped Penang into the vibrant and multicultural destination that it is today.
“As India is now the most populous country in the world, with a rapidly growing middle class and an increasingly dynamic travel market. For destinations like Penang, this presents tremendous opportunities to welcome more Indian visitors seeking authentic cultural experiences, heritage, cuisine, and meaningful travel,” said Wong in his speech.
He also added that connectivity plays a crucial role in making this possible and Penang is very pleased that IndiGo operates direct flights between Chennai and Penang, strengthening the travel corridor between Southern India and our state.
“As at December 2024, the route has recorded more than 770 flights and carried over 100,000 passengers between the two destinations from December 2024 to the end of 2025, reflecting the strong demand and positive response from the Indian market.
“I had the opportunity to visit Chennai in January, where I met with the management of IndiGo to explore the potential for an upcoming Bengaluru-Penang connection, which will further enhance accessibility and bring Penang closer to another major Indian technology and economic hub.,” added Wong.
“Penang also looks forward to welcoming more visitors from India to experience everything our state has to offer, from our George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site to the UNESCO Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve, as well as our renowned culinary culture, vibrant festivals, and warm hospitality,” ended Wong.
Meanwhile, Hitesh shared his pleasure and honour to be in Penang.
“I bring warm greetings from His Excellency Mr B.N. Reddy, High Commissioner of India to Malaysia towards the success of this event. I am particularly grateful to YB Wong for gracing this occasion as our Chief Guest.
“Penang holds a very special place in the history of India-Malaysia relations. Long before modern diplomacy, Penang was a confluence of civilisations. Indian traders, financiers, and labourers were among its earliest and most consequential inhabitants.
“Beyond history, Penang today is connected to India through family, language, food, and faith. Our relationship achieved a new high during the State Visit of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to India in August 2024, where our ties were elevated to a “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.”
“The delegates gathered here today are the true architects of this tourism corridor. Governments provide the framework – but it is your expertise, your relationships, and your creativity that build the experience.,” said Hitesh.
Also present at the event was MAH Penang vice chairman, Dato Gulab Mahatam Rai, Ben Ho, MATTA Penang Chapter chairman Carolyn Leong and other hoteliers.
The India-Malaysia Tourism Roadshow was also held in Kuala Lumpur yesterday.