TRAVELLERS between Penang and Hong Kong can soon have a further option to fly directly when AirAsia recommences its direct flight after a lapse of over a decade from Aug 10.
State executive councillor in charge of Tourism and Creative Economy (Petace) Yeoh Soon Hin applauded the airline for making great efforts to reconnect both islands, with three weekly flights on every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
He expects a surge in tourism, creating a significant economic impact on local businesses and the state’s economy as a whole.
“Hong Kong is a hugely popular destination for Malaysians, so this new route will undoubtedly be well received.
“I applaud AirAsia for its unwavering efforts to introduce unique routes, further promoting Penang as a must-visit destination in Malaysia.
“The tourists will come not only from Hong Kong but also from China and the other parts of the world.
“Hong Kong is part of China’s Greater Bay Area (GBA), a major initiative by the Chinese government to integrate the economies of their rapidly developing regions. By connecting with China’s GBA, it would be advantageous for Penang to attain higher tourism and economic growth.
“Penang can tap into this economic powerhouse, attracting businesses, investments and trade opportunities that contribute to the overall economic growth. Currently, Penang enjoys air connectivity to Guangzhou through Southern Airlines and to Hong Kong through Cathay Pacific. With AirAsia’s new direct flights, the state’s accessibility to the global market will increase significantly,” Yeoh said in his speech.
He expressed confidence that the expected influx of travellers will invigorate various sectors, including hospitality, food and beverage, retail, and transportation, stimulating job creation and contributing to the overall prosperity of Penang.
AirAsia Northern Region director Kenneth Tan thanked Yeoh and the state government for their hard work in the promotion of the Penang-Hong Kong direct flight.
“Penang is one of the most proactive and most creative states in tourism in Malaysia and probably in this region. That has given us a lot of confidence to promote more direct flights to Penang.
“AirAsia will be the only low-cost carrier airline to fly direct to Hong Kong from Penang. We will bring the fares down, to make flying more affordable to Penang from Hong Kong.
“Once we come in, you will see fares will become more affordable. AirAsia started in Penang in 2001 and we became a hub in 2009.
“Today, we have seven direct international flights to Penang and three domestic flights to Penang, a total of 217 weekly flights.
“AirAsia will continue to explore new destinations to fly to Penang direct. This is my pledge to YB Yeoh and the state. When the time is right, we will make the announcement,” Tan said.
Penang Global Tourism chief executive officer Ooi Chok Yan, who was also present at the press conference, said they did a roadshow in China recently, covering Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Hong Kong.
The roadshow involved the largest delegation to date, with 40 participants from 20 organisations.
During the roadshow, he said they also promoted various attractions in Penang, like the mainland (Opposite the Island), Teluk Bahang and Balik Pulau (the Other Side of the Island), the two UNESCO sites (the George Town World Heritage Site and the Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve), and the renowned Michelin-rated food available in the state.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Siew Chia En