In a continued effort to create a balanced tourism landscape between Penang Island and Seberang Perai, Penang Global Tourism (PGT) and Think City have launched a comprehensive suite of Seberang Perai Tourism Materials and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration in promoting the mainland’s tourism assets.
The ceremony, held at Fifth Avenue Hotel, was witnessed by YB Wong Hon Wai, State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy, alongside industry stakeholders and key partners. Representing PGT was Chief Executive Officer Ooi Chok Yan, while Stuart MacDonald signed on behalf of Think City.
Also lending their support were Penang MAH Chairman Dato’ Tony Goh, Penang MOTAC Director Dr Annuar Mohamed, Tourism Malaysia Northern Region Director Abdul Hadi Che Man, Komtar Assemblyman Yb Teh Lai Heng, Air Itam Assemblyman Yb Joseph Ng, and Datin Barathi, General Manager of Chief Minister Incorporated (CMI), among others.
YB Wong highlighted the importance of refreshing and expanding Seberang Perai’s tourism promotion materials—ranging from books and brochures to videos—under the “Levelling Up Seberang Perai” initiative. Funded through the Seberang Perai Small Town Grants Programme, this initiative aims to spotlight the mainland’s distinct identity and charm.
“Today marks not only the unveiling of Seberang Perai’s tourism promotion materials, but also the signing of a landmark MoU between PGT and Think City,” said Wong. “Together, we will chart a new direction for Seberang Perai’s tourism landscape, ensuring that its natural beauty, heritage, and communities receive the recognition they deserve.” he said.
Curated by Think City with strong support from the Penang State Government, Ministry of Finance Malaysia, and Northern Corridor Implementation Authority (NCIA), the project involved close collaboration with local communities to capture the authentic stories and spirit of Seberang Perai.
The newly launched materials include titles such as Exploring Seberang Perai / Jelajah Seberang Perai, Hidden Gems of Seberang Perai (North, Central, South), Guar Kepah – Sejarah, Arkeologi & Kelestarian Warisan, Sejarah & Warisan Haji di Seberang Perai, Navigating the Legacies of Nibong Tebal, Birds of Seberang Perai, and Permatang Tinggi Cultural Mapping.
Complementing these publications are seven short videos introducing the charm of Seberang Perai’s small towns and the Siri Dokumentari Seberang Perai Utara.
“Together, these materials invite visitors to discover the mainland’s multifaceted appeal—from tranquil mangrove trails and birdwatching havens to vibrant local markets, rich culinary traditions, and timeless heritage towns.
“These publications not only uncover Seberang Perai’s lesser-known treasures but also weave together the cultural and human stories that define its identity,” Wong added. “They reflect our shared vision to transform Seberang Perai from a place to pass through into a destination to truly explore.” said Wong.
With its strong roots in nature, culture, and community, Seberang Perai is poised to become Penang’s next tourism frontier. Ecotourism, homestays, arts, food, and handicrafts are emerging as new growth engines—revitalizing traditional skills and turning local wisdom into sustainable tourism opportunities.
Hosting the launch event on Penang Island also allowed PGT to introduce Seberang Perai’s offerings to tour operators, agents, hoteliers, and guides, encouraging them to include the mainland in upcoming travel itineraries and package designs.
“As we prepare for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, these materials will serve as valuable resources for the tourism industry to design more integrated and holistic Penang experiences,” Wong concluded. “This collaboration between Think City and PGT marks a meaningful step forward in positioning Seberang Perai as a vibrant, diverse, and must-visit destination.” shared Wong.