By V. Sivaji
The Penang State Government forged an understanding with several travel agencies from Chongqing, China to further promote tourism between the two states.
Present to witness the signing ceremony was the State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai along with the chief executive officer of Penang Global Tourism (PGT), Ooi Chok Yan.
The signing ceremony which was held at the Eastin Hotel Penang earlier today was attended by Mr. Tu Ming (Chairman of Chongqing Wenhua Tourism), Mr. Di Bao (VP of Chongqing Leyou International), Mr. Li Bo (VP of Chongqing Ctrip International), Mr. Tian Simou (GM of Hubei Zhonglv) who was represented by Ms Foo.
Penang’s heritage, culture and food are among main attraction factors for the Chinese tourists who come from the south-western region of China.
This region has a total population of 34 million and is a huge market to be tapped..
“This is an acknowledgement of Penang and Chongqing’s strengthening friendship, particularly as we commemorate the 50th anniversary of Malaysia-China diplomatic relations.
“China ranks among Penang’s top three international tourist sources, with an impressive 226% increase in Chinese tourist arrivals from January to September 2024 compared to 2023.
“This partnership represents a new chapter in tourism collaboration between Penang and Chongqing, further building on the success of Penang’s recent tourism roadshow in Chongqing. The collaboration underscores the robust responses and increased interest in Penang generated from the Chongqing roadshow”, shared Wong in his address.
Presently, direct charter flights between Chongqing and Penang are operated by Firefly Airlines and facilitated by Chongqing Wenhua Tourism Group, commenced on July 23, 2024. These flights, using Boeing 737 aircraft with three flights per week, haveboosted travel between the two destinations.
“Penang’s diverse culinary scene was showcased during the Chongqing roadshow, drawing significant admiration. This has encouraged Chongqing visitors to personally experience Penang’s cultural richness and hospitality”, said Wong in his address.
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