Penang State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai hailed Penang’s incredible achievement of being connected to four of China’s top five airports.
He was speaking at the China Sichuan Airlines Product Presentation held at the JEN Penang Georgetown yesterday.
Also present was Yu YanBing, Deputy Director, Commercial Department, Sichuan Airlines and his team.
Sichuan Airlines commenced its direct flight to Penang International Airport with effect April 30, 2025 flying five times a week.
“It was my great honour to recently lead a Penang delegation to visit the headquarters of China Sichuan Airlines in Chengdu. I was deeply impressed by the airline’s professionalism, visionary strategic outlook, and the warm, thoughtful hospitality extended to our delegation, which truly made us feel at home.
*Penang is directly connected to four of China’s top five airports ranked by passenger throughput*
“According to the Statistics released by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), Penang’s direct flight network now extensively covers major international airports in China. With the launch of the new direct route between Chengdu Tianfu International Airport and Penang,
“Penang has successfully established direct air connectivity with 4 out of China’s top 5 airports ranked by passenger throughput, further solidifying our position as a key gateway for Chinese travellers entering and departing Malaysia,” said Wong in his address.
Among the Chinese airports are – 1) Shanghai Pudong International Airport (Ranked No.1), 2) Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (Ranked No.2), 3) Beijing Capital International Airport (Ranked No.3) – Direct flight to Penang not yet available and remains a potential route for future development, 4) Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (Ranked No.4) and 5) Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (Ranked No.5) – operated by Sichuan Airlines
“Moreover, since December 2023, Malaysia and China have mutually implemented visa-free travel policies and continuously optimized related measures, thereby opening the doors for even greater 2-way exchanges. Passenger flows between Malaysia and China, particularly to Penang, have surged rapidly.
“Looking ahead, with both governments agreeing to extend the visa liberalization program for an additional 5 years – with the possibility of a further 5-year extension – and Malaysia increasing the visa-free stay for Chinese citizens from 30 days to 90 days, the aviation and tourism industries of both countries are set to benefit tremendously from these favourable policies.
“The inauguration of Sichuan Airlines’ direct Chengdu–Penang route is timely and well-positioned to capture these growing opportunities.
“Chengdu, located in the western part of the Sichuan Basin and surrounded by mountains, boasts stunning natural scenery and a rich historical and cultural heritage. From the tranquil beauty of Mount Qingcheng, the engineering marvel of the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, the poetic charm of Du Fu Thatched Cottage, the solemnity of Wuhou Shrine, the enticing flavours of Sichuan cuisine, to the adorable pandas at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Chengdu weaves together tradition and modernity to enchant visitors from around the world,” added Wong.