PENANG marked a milestone in its aviation and tourism growth on Dec 8 as Batik Air launched two inaugural international routes to the state, both landing on the same day for the first time in its history.
The airline’s new Singapore–Penang service, which touched down in the afternoon of Dec 8 at the Penang International Airport (PIA), greeted with a ceremonial water cannon salute.
Later that night, Penang welcomed Batik Air’s second inaugural arrival, this time from Medan, marking a rare double celebration for the state’s air connectivity.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the dual launch reflects Penang’s rising significance as a regional travel hub.
“This is the first time a single airline has introduced two new international routes to Penang on the same day.
“It is truly historic and underscores Batik Air’s confidence in Penang’s tourism and economic potential,” he said.
The daily Singapore–Penang flight, operating under the code OD832, departed Changi Airport at 3.25pm and landed in Penang shortly after.
Its return leg, OD831, departed Penang at 8.20am and arrived in Singapore at 9.45am, timed to serve the business travel market.
The inaugural Medan–Penang flight (OD313) left the Kuala Namu International Airport at 6.45pm (Medan time) and landed in Penang at 8.40pm.
The return service, OD312, will operate daily, departing Penang at 5.45pm and arriving in Medan at the same local time.
Wong said these new services strengthen Penang’s position in the region.
“Indonesia and Singapore are among Penang’s largest visitor markets, ranking first and third respectively.
These direct connections arrive at the perfect time as we gear up for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism 2026,” he added.
Batik Air will also increase its Subang–Penang route from one to two daily flights beginning 11 December 2025, improving connectivity for business travellers and domestic tourists.
With the additions, Batik Air will operate 78 weekly flights to and from Penang, covering Singapore (7 weekly), Medan (7), Jakarta (14), Kuala Lumpur (36) and Subang (14). The airline also runs charter services from Penang to Kunming, China.
Wong praised Batik Air for its longstanding partnership with Penang.
“Batik Air remains one of our strongest strategic partners. Their continued expansion here strengthens Penang’s role as the northern region’s key gateway and supports the state’s tourism, commercial and industrial sectors,” he said.
Indonesia continues to dominate Penang’s medical tourism sector, contributing nearly 90% of total medical tourism revenue.
Wong highlighted that the inaugural services will enhance Penang’s readiness for the surge in medical and leisure travel expected in 2026
“These new routes do more than boost tourist arrivals, they support business activities, family travel, trade and social links throughout the region.
“This expansion affirms Penang’s strength as a high-demand destination and reinforces our ambition to be a dynamic regional aviation gateway”.
Wong expressed the state’s appreciation to Batik Air for its growing investment in Penang.
“We deeply value Batik Air’s confidence in Penang. Their commitment ensures sustained tourism flows, new economic opportunities and greater global visibility for the state,” he said.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Siew Chia En