Penang continues to be a highly popular destination, particularly during the Chinese New Year (CNY) and school holidays, attracting a significant influx of both domestic and international tourists. The recent Chinese New Year celebrations, marked by the Penang Miaohui (temple fair), drew large crowds to the Heritage Precinct of George Town. This event, held on February 1, 2025, from 4.00pm to 11.00pm, featured various activities such as lion dances, local specialty food making, and riddle games, which were well-received by visitors.
The hotel sector in Penang has been experiencing high demand, with booking rates reaching between 90% and 100% in areas such as the city centre and Batu Ferringhi. According to Datuk Tony Goh, the Penang chapter chairman of the Malaysian Hotel Association, this surge is driven by the arrival of domestic tourists during the school holidays and the extended Christmas holiday period. Goh noted that hotels in beach areas and the city centre are experiencing strong demand, with bookings reaching up to 100%.
The tourism industry in Penang has seen a significant boost, with over 7.27 million tourists staying overnight in hotels last year, representing a 30.2% increase compared to 2022. Wong Hon Wai, the state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman, attributed this growth to the aggressive promotional efforts by the state government and its agencies. This increase has also led to the opening of new hotels such as The George Penang and Penang Marriott Hotel.
Tourist attractions in Penang, including Chew Jetty, Armenian Street, Penang Hill, Batu Ferringhi, and the Esplanade, have been crowded with visitors. The Penang Tourist Guides Association president, Clement Liang, reported high demand from tourists, especially those travelling by cruises, indicating a strong performance in the tourism sector. The Penang Island City Council (MBPP) has intensified traffic monitoring around George Town and other tourist hotspots to manage the increased traffic flow during these peak periods.
Penang’s enduring appeal, coupled with its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unique local cuisine, makes it a must-visit destination for both domestic and international tourists, especially during festive seasons like Chinese New Year and school holidays.
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