THE Habitat Penang Hill marked its 10th anniversary with the launch of a new initiative aimed at enhancing visitor experience, as the site continues to strengthen its position as a leading eco-tourism attraction.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said over the past decade, Penang Hill has evolved into a destination that blends natural beauty with meaningful experiences.
“Trails, viewpoints and immersive programmes allow visitors to connect with nature while enjoying panoramic views of George Town and the Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve,” he said at the official launch of “Journey Through The Habitat” in conjunction with the 10th anniversary of The Habitat Penang Hill.
He noted that such experiences help people “slow down, connect with nature, and understand the importance of protecting it.”
Chow also highlighted the operator’s commitment to sustainability, saying practical steps such as solar power, water recycling, composting, eliminating single-use plastics and introducing plant-based options reflect a broader vision aligned with Penang2030.
He pointed out that Penang Hill continues to draw strong visitor numbers, noting that the funicular railway welcomed 1.9 million riders in 2025.
On infrastructure, he said the Penang Hill cable car project is progressing steadily, adding that the overall project is now 28% complete, with all caisson points and reinforced concrete piles for the multi-storey car park finished.
“Construction continues across the Garden Station, Turn Hill and Hill Station, alongside the installation of cable car equipment, three batches of which have already arrived,” he said.
He further noted that “slope stabilisation is progressing well,” adding that restoration and landscaping works at the Penang Botanic Gardens will be completed before the service opens.
Chow highlighted that the project promises to enhance accessibility and visitor experience in the years ahead.
On tourism performance, he said Penang has seen growth not only in arrivals but also in spending, pointing out that average expenditure per tourist increased from RM2,792 in 2022 to RM3,443 in 2025.
He noted that the increase reflects confidence in Penang as a destination and the growth of quality tourism products, including experiences such as The Habitat.
Chow stressed that collaboration has been key, saying partnerships with stakeholders contributed to milestones such as the UNESCO designation of the Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve.
He added that The Habitat Group’s involvement in the biosphere reserve’s board and executive committee reflects a shared commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism.
On new initiatives, he said the “Journey through The Habitat” journal is a particularly exciting step forward, noting that it integrates storytelling and technology, including artificial intelligence, to enhance visitor engagement.
“Technology, when used thoughtfully, can deepen our connection with the environment,” he said.
Chow added that Penang Hill stands as a model of what careful planning, collaboration and purpose-driven development can achieve, highlighting the importance of balancing tourism growth with environmental and cultural preservation.
“The state government will continue to support initiatives that reflect these values,” he said, adding that he looks forward to experiencing the new journal following its launch.
The Habitat Group managing director Danny Chua said The Habitat Penang Hill milestone reflects the success of long-standing collaborations with government agencies, partners and the local community.
“What started as a simple idea to bring people closer to nature has grown into something much bigger, thanks to the support of many stakeholders,” he said.
He noted that international visitor numbers, particularly from China, Taiwan and India, have shown strong growth, indicating that ongoing tourism efforts are yielding results.
“The Habitat Penang Hill has also gained recognition for offering world-class facilities and immersive nature experiences,” he said, hoping more tourists would take the opportunity to visit the tourism attraction.
Among those present were Women, Family and Community Development Deputy Minister Lim Hui Ying, former chief minister Lim Guan Eng, who is also Air Putih assemblyman, state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng, Deputy State Secretary (Development) Mohamed Abdul Rahman, and Penang Hill Corporation (PHC) general manager Datuk Cheok Lay Leng.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Siew Chia En
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat