SEBERANG Perai holds tremendous potential to flourish as a leading destination for eco-tourism and religious tourism in Malaysia, says Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai.
Speaking at the Penang International High Pole Lion Dance Invitational Championship dinner held at Holiday Inn & Suites Penang Prai in Juru this evening, Wong said Seberang Perai’s natural charm and cultural diversity offer a unique blend of nature, heritage and spirituality.
“Seberang Perai’s lush countryside coexists harmoniously with vibrant temples and places of worship, blending nature, culture, and community in a uniquely compelling way.
“With sustained strategic planning and strong promotional efforts, I am confident that Seberang Perai will shine even brighter on Malaysia’s tourism map,” Wong said.
According to Wong, the past two years have clearly demonstrated that Seberang Perai is emerging as one of the state’s most dynamic hubs for major events.
“For instance, as the chairperson of the Penang Bridge International Marathon, I am proud to share that we relocated this world-class marathon to Seberang Perai last year for the very first time in its history, with the race now starting from the Penang Second Bridge in Batu Kawan. This year, the marathon continues to be hosted here in Seberang Perai.
“Beyond that, Seberang Perai now plays host to a vibrant lineup of cultural and community festivals such as the Penang2030 Celebration × Seberang Perai Heritage Day 2025, the Seberang Perai Chingay Parade, the Butterworth Fringe Festival, the Nibong Tebal Festival, and the Kepala Batas Festival.
“These diverse events not only reflect the region’s flourishing cultural vitality, but also bring substantial economic impact through event tourism benefiting hotels, food and beverage (F&B), retail, and strengthening balanced regional development,” said Wong.
Wong added that Seberang Perai’s growth is not only driven by festivals and cultural events, but also by the rapid rise of its tourism and hospitality sectors.
“With steady economic progress, Seberang Perai’s hotel industry has emerged with renewed dynamism.
“This very venue where we gather this evening, Holiday Inn & Suites Penang Prai, is among the newly opened quality hotels this year.
“Its establishment enriches the region’s accommodation offerings and marks a new milestone in Seberang Perai’s tourism growth,” he said.
Wong emphasised that the Penang government remains committed to advancing infrastructure and public facilities across Seberang Perai.
“In recent years, significant progress has been made in enhancing connectivity and transport networks, reflecting our government’s resolve to achieve balanced regional growth,” he added.
Wong also extended his best wishes to every team competing in the Penang International High Pole Lion Dance Invitational Championship’s grand finals tomorrow.
“May each team perform at its highest level, competing with excellence, with friendship, and with pride,” he said.
Story by Riadz Akmal