By V. Sivaji
The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Penang Chapter successfully hosted its Networking Dinner & Fellowship Night 2026 at the prestigious Eastern & Oriental Hotel, Penang, bringing together approximately 300 guests from the tourism and travel industry.
The event was graced by YB Wong Hon Wai as guest of honour, alongside MATTA National President, Nigel Wong, who was warmly welcomed by Ms Carolyn Leong, Chairman of MATTA Penang Chapter.
Also present were distinguished guests including H.E. Mr Shinya Machida, Consul General of Japan in Penang; H.E. Mr Psusist Wongsurawat, Consul General of Thailand in Penang; H.E. Mr Zhou Youbin, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Penang; Dr Annuar Mohamed, Penang Director of MOTAC; Abdul Hadi Che Man, Tourism Malaysia Northern Region Director; Ooi Chok Yan, CEO of Penang Global Tourism; Dato’ Tony Goh, Chairman of MAH Penang, Dato Khoo Boo Lim MAH National VP, Dato’ Sase, CEO of Penang Port Sdn Bhd, Mary Ann Harris, Executive Director of PMED among other industry leaders.
In her welcoming address, Leong emphasised that MATTA Penang continues to work hand in hand with the Penang State Government in strengthening the tourism ecosystem. She also announced that this year’s MATTA Fair 2026 will be held at the newly launched Penang Waterfront Convention Centre (PWCC), marking an exciting milestone for the association. She encouraged guests to reconnect, strengthen partnerships and move forward together in the New Year.
Meanwhile, YB Wong Hon Wai highlighted Penang’s strong tourism recovery, noting that Chinese tourists now account for over 40% of Penang’s visitor growth.
“We welcomed Spring Airlines’ inaugural flight from Shanghai to Penang earlier this afternoon, and come this Sunday, another Spring Airlines flight from Guangzhou to Penang will commence services bringing the total number of Chinese airlines flying into Penang to ten,” he added.
He also shared that discussions are underway to explore a potential IndiGo flight from Bengaluru to Penang, further enhancing regional connectivity.
The evening concluded on a high note with a lucky draw session, where guests stood a chance to win attractive prizes, rounding off a night of meaningful networking and fellowship
