By V. Sivaji
Tourists from Thailand like to visit Penang due to its immense food varieties, rich culture and historical connection between the city and Thailand.
This was shared by the Thai Consul of Thailand in Penang, HE Raschada Jiwalai at a press conference during the visit of some 40 tour and travel agents from Hatyai and Bangkok to Penang.
Also present at the launching ceremony was Penang State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai.
He was accompanied by Malaysians Association of Hotels (MAH) Penang Chapter chairman, Dato Tony Goh, Penang Global Tourism chief executive officer, Ooi Chok Yan, Penang MATTA chairman, Carolyn Leong, Dato Gulab Mahatam Rai, general manager of Lone Pine, Penang and Dennis Lee, general manager of Royale Chulan Penang.
Representatives from the various hotels and tour agencies in Penang also showed support to the networking session.
Several Thai print and electronic media representatives were also present in the troupe.
The B2B session was organised by Penang Global Tourism (PGT) to encourage more visitors from Thailand to Penang.
In his address, Wong said that Thailand is an important tourism market for Penang.
“The growth of outbound tourism from Thailand is attributed to the strength of the baht against major global currencies.
“This economic factor has positioned Thailand as a significant focus market for Penang, consistently ranking among the top 10 nationalities arriving in Penang through international flights.
“Notably, Thailand is home to nearly two million expatriates of diverse nationalities, residing in Bangkok and throughout the country. These expatriates form a high-spending, middle-class market that actively seek new and off-the-beaten-track destinations in the region,” said Wong in his address.
He also added that currently there are 29 direct flights provided by three different airlines flying weekly into Penang from Thailand which provides convenience to tourists.
