THE opening of Iconic Marjorie Penang marks another significant milestone in the state’s journey to strengthen its position as a leading tourism destination in the region, said Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
Speaking at the grand opening and gala luncheon of the hotel today, Chow said the arrival of Iconic Marjorie Penang aligns naturally with the Penang2030 vision and comes at a timely moment as the country prepares for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
“The arrival of Iconic Marjorie Penang fits very naturally into our Penang2030 vision, and it comes at a timely moment as we move into Visit Malaysia Year 2026,” he said, adding that Penang had already been moving with purpose to strengthen its tourism appeal even before the national campaign was announced.
Despite its grand opening today, Chow had already officiated the soft launch last year, marking a key milestone in the state’s tourism development.
The event earlier was graced by the presence of the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Ramli Ngah Talib and his consort Toh Puan Raja Noora Ashikin Raja Abdullah.
Meanwhile, Chow highlighted in his speech that the state government has consistently placed strong emphasis on accessibility and connectivity, including expanding air routes, welcoming more cruise ship calls, improving internal mobility, and ensuring the availability of quality hotels to support tourism growth.
“These efforts are beginning to show real results,” he said.
According to Chow, Penang International Airport recorded 7.91 million passenger movements in 2025 alone.
“On the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) front, Penang welcomed 423,731 delegates, generating an estimated economic impact of RM1.83 billion.
“With Visit Malaysia Year now fully underway, we are confident these numbers will continue to grow,” he said.
However, Chow stressed that tourism growth must go hand in hand with smooth and reliable mobility, acknowledging public concerns related to connectivity, including ferry services and rail linkages.
“These are valid concerns, and I want to assure everyone that the state government is paying close attention,” he said.
He noted that planned upgrades to the Butterworth KTM station and its surrounding facilities are already in the pipeline, describing the station as a key gateway to Penang, particularly for domestic travellers.
“A positive first impression begins there, and it is important that we get this right,” he said.
Chow also said Visit Malaysia Year 2026 presents an opportunity beyond promotion, serving as a platform to strengthen visa liberalisation efforts and improve the overall travel experience within the country.
“Easier entry into Malaysia must be matched by smoother movement within it. From airports to train stations, from ferry terminals to last-mile connections, the journey should feel seamless,” he said.
He further encouraged the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture to continue adopting a locally adaptive approach in its campaigns by working closely with state governments, engaging local communities and making full use of local SMEs.
“And of course, if those SMEs happen to be from Penang, that would be even better,” he added.
Touching on medical tourism, Chow said the tourism growth aligns well with the Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism 2026, noting that Penang has established itself as a key medical tourism hub supported by strong healthcare institutions and international confidence.
“Last year alone, we welcomed 449,289 foreign patients. Hotels such as Iconic Marjorie Penang are therefore well positioned to host these visitors and their families in comfort during their stay,” he said.
While the figures are encouraging, Chow emphasised that tourism growth must translate into tangible benefits for the people.
“What matters most is how tourism growth translates into real benefits for our people, with more jobs, stronger local businesses, and a more resilient economy,” he said.
Describing Iconic Marjorie Penang, Chow said the hotel reflects the type of development welcomed by the state, one that is rooted in local culture, respectful of heritage, and forward-looking in design and service.
“Its Peranakan-inspired elements tell a Penang story that visitors can truly connect with,” he said.
Chow congratulated Iconic Group chairman Datuk Seri Tan Keat Tet, Marriott International, and all partners involved for believing in Penang and strengthening the state’s tourism and hospitality ecosystem.
He also extended his congratulations to the entire Iconic Marjorie Penang team, expressing hope that the hotel would become a place where friendships are formed, businesses grow, and memorable Penang experiences begin.
“With that, I wish Iconic Marjorie Penang every success, and I look forward to seeing it become one of Penang’s most cherished hospitality landmarks,” he said.
Also present were Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Tiong King Sing, Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Steven Sim, former chief minister Lim Guan Eng, Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Lim Hui Ying, several state executive councillors, and key industry leaders.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Alissala Thian
Video by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi