BATIK Air has launched direct flights between Batam, Indonesia, and Penang, making Batam the fifth Indonesian city with direct air connectivity to the state.
The inaugural flight arrived at the Penang International Airport on Oct 18, expanding Penang’s existing air links with Jakarta, Surabaya, Banda Aceh and Medan.
The launch followed a tourism roadshow in Batam the previous week, aimed at promoting Penang’s tourism offerings and strengthening partnerships with Indonesia’s tourism industry.
Flight OD359 departed Hang Nadim International Airport (BTH) at 11.30am Batam time and arrived at Penang International Airport (PEN) at 1.40pm Penang time.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai was present to welcome passengers arriving on the inaugural service.
“Today, we are delighted to follow that engagement by welcoming this inaugural flight,” he said.
Wong highlighted Indonesia’s importance to Penang’s tourism sector, noting that the air connections reflected the longstanding ties between the two destinations.
“Indonesia has long been an important part of Peang’s tourism story. It is our number-one source market for international arrivals and also ranks first in direct flight frequency to Penang.
“These connections reflect the longstanding ties between our people and the many reasons Indonesians choose to visit our state,” he said.
Wong also highlighted Penang’s tourism attractions, including its Unesco World Heritage Site, Penang Hill and diverse food offerings, which he said could appeal to Indonesian visitors through their familiar flavours and cultural connections.
The new service supports tourism initiatives such as Visit Malaysia 2026, Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism 2026 and Visit Malaysia 2027 by improving accessibility, offering travellers more choices and helping tourism businesses reach new markets.
Wong said Penang would continue working with industry partners to strengthen its presence in Indonesia and promote the state as a destination for visitors.
“I would like to congratulate Batik Air on the launch of this route and thank the airport authorities, Penang Global Tourism and all industry partners who have contributed to this milestone,” he said.
The flights will operate three times a week, on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.
The new route is expected to strengthen travel links between Batam and Penang, supporting tourism, healthcare travel and business exchanges between the two destinations.
Pix courtesy of the state Tourism and Creative Economy office (PETACE)