(By Penang Hyperlocal in Hatyai, Southern Thailand)
In an effort to further boost tourists from Southern Thailand, the Penang State Government, through Penang Global Tourism (PGT), brought its signature tourism campaign “Not The Penang You Know” in a vibrant networking session that saw the participation of over 24 Penang-based tourism stakeholders.
The event, held at the New Season Convention in Hatyai was led by Penang State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy, YB Wong Hon Wai.
Also present was the director of Tourism Malaysia in Bangkok, Puan Nurul Ain Mohammad Yunus, Malaysian Association of Hotels (Penang Chapter) chairman Dato Tony Goh, PGT chief executive officer, Ooi Chok Yan among others.
Lending support were the Thai counterparts, namely, Mr Sarttra Sripan, Member of Thau Parliament Songkhla, Dr Abdulroman Kayem, Advisor to the CEO of Songkhla PAO, Mr Songpol Jangsiriwattanathamrong, President of the Songkhla Chamber of Commerce, Jirarak Padungpakdeewong, President of Thai Travel Agents Association Lower Southern Chapter, Mr Sitthipong Sitthiphataraphabha, President Hotel Association and Mr Suwat Phetwarothai, Member of Songkhla Chamber.
Speaking to Thai travel agents, media, and industry partners, Wong highlighted the strong cultural and historical ties between Penang and Thailand, while inviting Thai travellers to revisit Penang and discover its growing range of experiences.
“Penang is a small state, but we have a big heart and an even bigger personality. Known as the “Pearl of the Orient,” Penang offers a perfect blend of history, heritage, culture, food, and innovation. Whether it is exploring George Town’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, enjoying a beach holiday in Batu Ferringhi, discovering hidden gems in Balik Pulau, or indulging in our world-renowned street food, Penang has something for everyone.
“Now, some of you may be thinking: we already know Penang. We’ve been there, done that. But today, I want to introduce you to a campaign we proudly call “Not The Penang You Know.”
“This campaign is all about surprising even the most seasoned traveller. It’s about showing that Penang is more than just George Town and street food — although we are still proud of both!
“Penang is more than just George Town and food. From wedding destinations and wellness retreats to rooftop bars and immersive art spaces, there’s always something new to explore,” added Wong.
He also shared that the “Not The Penang You Know” campaign aims to reintroduce Penang through lesser-known experiences — including nature-based tourism, heritage crafts, new attractions and emerging business and education opportunities.
The event also spotlighted Penang’s unique Thai heritage, including Wat Chaiyamangkalaram temple and the legacy of Khaw Sim Bee Na Ranong, a Thai nobleman born in Penang.
Wong also added that in George Town there is a road named Siam Road, a reflection of the long-standing Thai heritage.
“Not far from there is Wat Chaiyamangkalaram, home to one of the world’s longest reclining Buddha statues — a Thai Buddhist temple that was built in 1845 and remains an iconic symbol of the Thai community in Penang.
The highlight of the day was the business matching session, where more than 24 Penang tourism industry players connected with their Thai counterparts to explore future collaborations.
The Penang State Government reaffirms its commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and tourism partnerships with Thailand. This session in Southern Thailand marks another milestone in Penang’s strategic outreach to key ASEAN markets.
Penang is already seeing a surge in Thai arrivals, especially post-pandemic, and looks forward to welcoming even more travellers seeking leisure, education, business and cultural exchanges.
The Penang delegation included representatives from Penang Global Tourism, Malaysia Association of Hotels (MAH) Penang Chapter, Penang Wedding Professionals Association, Bertam Resort & Water Park Penang, Citadines Connect Georgetown Penang, Design Village Outlet Mall, De’8 Mini Golf Cafe, Eastin Hotel Penang, Flamingo Hotel By The Beach Penang, Fifth Avenue Hotel, Penang, Hotel Sentral Seaview / Hotel Sentral Georgetown, IPK College, Lim Boon Kooi Travel Sdn Bhd, Mercure Penang Beach, My Passion Travel Sdn Bhd, Nyonya Heritage Art / Kenny Loh Couture, Olive Tree Hotel, Penang, Penang History Gallery, Penang Ghost Museum, Passion 2 Wealth Sdn Bhd, Mei Hotel, SENTRAL College Penang, St. Giles Wembley Penang and The Blanket Hotels.
The travel arrangements were made by Capital One Leisure Sdn Bhd led by its general manager Garry Cheong.
Source – Penang Global Tourism
