In conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026, the festive spirit of Chinese New Year (CNY) came alive at Penang International Airport (PIA) today, as Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, together with key players from the state’s tourism industry, warmly welcomed local and international visitors arriving on the first day of CNY 2026.
Guests were greeted with mandarin oranges and specially curated CNY souvenirs, symbolising Penang’s heartfelt wishes for prosperity, happiness and a flourishing year ahead. The arrival hall was filled with vibrant energy, laughter and festive cheer, creating a memorable first impression for travellers stepping into the Pearl of the Orient.
Wong personally presented the traditional tokens of goodwill to visitors, along with Visit Malaysia 2026 memorabilia, underscoring Penang’s reputation for warm hospitality and cultural richness.
The gesture marked a joyful and meaningful start to the new year, leaving travellers feeling appreciated and welcomed from the very first moment.
Wong said the first day of CNY has always been regarded as the beginning of a new cycle, a time of renewal, hope and prosperity.
He said by welcoming visitors at such an auspicious moment, Penang embraces the spirit of Visit Malaysia 2026 with renewed momentum while aspiring for bustling tourism, thriving businesses and sustained economic growth throughout the year.
He also highlighted the encouraging growth in passenger traffic at PIA.
“According to the latest statistics from the Airport Authority, PIA recorded 8.31 million passenger movements in 2025, representing an 11.2% increase from 7.47 million in 2024. This steady upward trend reflects Penang’s strong recovery and growing appeal as a tourism destination,” he said.
In terms of international connectivity, Wong noted that as of December 2025, Penang welcomed 325 international flights per week, up from 302 weekly flights in 2024, a 7.6% increase.
“Compared with 259 weekly flights in 2023, this represents an additional 66 flights per week over two years, a significant 25.5% growth.
“The expanding flight network greatly enhances Penang’s regional and global connectivity, further strengthening its position as a major air gateway and tourism hub,” he added.
To support rising visitor numbers and improve travel efficiency, Wong said PIA recently completed key infrastructure upgrades ahead of CNY 2026, including the introduction of the National Immigration Integrated System (NIISe) autogate facilities.
“The new system has significantly reduced processing times. Currently, five auto-gates are operational for departures, serving travellers from 73 countries and regions, while six auto-gates are in place for arrivals, covering visitors from 65 countries and regions.
“By the end of the year, both departure and arrival gates are expected to expand to 12 units each, demonstrating the strong commitment of the Penang government and federal authorities to modernise infrastructure in line with Visit Malaysia 2026,” he said.
Wong also outlined improvements aimed at enhancing passenger convenience upon arrival.
“A dedicated e-hailing waiting area has been established on the ground floor of the parking facility opposite the main terminal. It can accommodate up to 86 passengers and features digital screens displaying real-time vehicle plate numbers.
“The air-conditioned waiting room offers greater comfort, while a service counter operating daily from 6am to midnight assists travellers in booking rides via mobile applications. This streamlined system resolves previous congestion issues and significantly improves the overall arrival experience,” he explained.
Looking ahead, Wong reaffirmed the state’s commitment to positioning Penang as a key gateway for Visit Malaysia 2026.
“We will continue to enhance Penang’s international visibility and competitiveness while celebrating Malaysia’s rich multicultural identity.
“Guided by sustainable development principles, the state remains focused on upgrading infrastructure, strengthening service quality and expanding global outreach, ensuring the tourism sector grows not only in numbers, but in quality and long-term resilience,” he said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix courtesy of YB Wong’s office