By V. Sivaji
The 8th edition of the Penang International Travel Exchange (PITE) 2025 got off to a lively start at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre here.
A total of 48 exhibitors and over 80 international buyers and media from Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, representing 13 countries in total are in attendance.
They were from Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, Italy, Oman, the Philippines, Poland, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, the United Arab Emirates, and Vietnam.
On hand to launch the event was State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy, YB Wong Hon Wai. Present to welcome him was Ashwin Gunasekeran, Chief Executive Officer of PCEB and his team members.
Also present was YB Wong Yuee Harng, assemblyman for Pengkalan Kota, YB Lee Boon Heng, ADUN Kebun Bunga, Dato Khoo Boo Lim, MAH National Vice President, Datin Barathi, general manager Chief Minister Incorporated ( CMI) among a host of other guests.
In his address, Wong expressed his delight in seeing such strong participation this year.
“The Penang International Travel Exchange is more than a gathering of industry players — it is a catalyst for opportunity. By bringing together international buyers and local exhibitors, PITE creates a dynamic environment that benefits our economy as a whole.
“From our hotels, restaurants and attractions to our transport, creative industries, and small businesses, the ripple effect of this event is felt far and wide.
“Penang has long been recognised for its unique charm and character, but what sets us apart is our constant drive for progress. We are investing heavily in infrastructure to strengthen tourism and the business events industry,” said Wong in his speech.
He also added that the Penang International Airport expansion project, once completed, will make it the largest airport in northern Malaysia, with capacity to handle up to 12 million passengers annually — more than double its current capacity.
“On our latest tourism promotion trip to Tokyo and Osaka, we have also promoted Penang at the Osaka Expo and Penang Week. We have also met up with representatives of JAL and Peach Airlines to explore direct flight here too,” said Wong at the press conference.
Meanwhile, Ashwin in his address highlighted that PITE has grown from a pioneering local initiative into a premier international platform that bridges cultures, fosters
partnerships, and drives economic opportunities for Penang and beyond.
“The participation of more countries not only highlights the global confidence in Penang as a thriving hub for tourism and business events but also underlines the strategic importance of PITE as a marketplace where ideas, collaborations, and future opportunities are forged.
“For the first time in its history, PITE 2025 will feature exhibition booths, a significant milestone that provides exhibitors with greater exposure and enhanced opportunities to connect with buyers.
“The three-day programme of PITE 2025 has been thoughtfully designed to strike a balance between commerce and culture. Over the first one and a half days, buyers and exhibitors will engage in structured B2B meetings aimed at sparking partnerships and unlocking new markets.
“The following one and a half days will immerse delegates in a carefully curated familiarisation tour around Penang, where they will experience first-hand the island’s rich cultural tapestry, culinary excellence, and world-class attractions,” shared Ashwin.
Following the vibrant launch gambit which included colourful traditional performances, buyers indulged in the B2B session while the foreign media members also made new friends and acquaintances.
