Penang State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy, YB Wong Hon Wai, was recently conferred the “Outstanding State Tourism Leader” award at the Asian Hospitality & Tourism Awards (ATH Awards) 2025–2026 gala dinner held in Kuala Lumpur.
He was the only elected representative to receive an award at this year’s ceremony.
The ATH Awards primarily recognises professional institutions, industry players and leaders in the tourism and hospitality sectors. The platform brings together leading hotel groups, international hospitality brands, tourism corporations, convention centres and senior industry figures from across Asia. Wong’s recognition among these industry leaders reflects the growing regional acknowledgement of Penang’s tourism achievements in recent years.
Wong said he was deeply honoured and humbled to be recognised among leading figures in the tourism and hospitality industry, and to be the only elected representative to receive an award at this year’s ATH Awards.
“This award does not belong to me alone. It belongs to the entire Penang tourism ecosystem. The steady progress and achievements of Penang’s tourism industry are not the work of any single individual, but the result of the collective efforts of Penang State Government, tourism players, hoteliers, airlines, the business events sector, arts and cultural practitioners, community organisations and all relevant stakeholders. It is through close cooperation and shared commitment that Penang’s tourism performance and international standing continue to grow,” he said.
Wong added that Penang’s recognition is also closely linked to the continued expansion of international air connectivity at Penang International Airport. With more direct international flights being introduced, Penang’s accessibility has been further enhanced, strengthening its connection with the world and injecting fresh momentum into the state’s tourism industry.
“A stronger aviation network has contributed to the overall performance of Penang’s tourism sector, including the continued growth in international visitor arrivals, steady improvement in hotel occupancy, as well as rising demand for MICE and international conferences. These developments are closely interlinked and have further strengthened Penang’s position as the tourism gateway and business events hub of northern Malaysia,” he said.
He added that Penang’s reputation as a destination for international conferences, exhibitions, major events, sporting events and high-value tourism experiences has continued to grow, further consolidating its position as one of Malaysia’s leading tourism states.
Wong also extended his congratulations to several Penang tourism, hospitality and MICE organisations as well as industry representatives who were also recognised at this year’s ATH Awards. He said the multiple awards won by Penang players reflected the strength, unity and depth of Penang’s tourism ecosystem.
“The Penang State Government has a clear objective, which is to continue to develop Penang as a sustainable, high-quality and globally competitive tourism destination, while creating tangible economic benefits and long-term value for the state,” he said.