A new convention centre, new hotel openings and more direct flights expected to attract more visitors and business events.
Exciting times ahead for Penang as it gears up to boost tourism. Here’s a roundup of what to expect:
Landmarks on the horizon
The Penang Waterfront Convention Centre (PWCC), set to open in Q2
2025, will soon be the island's new standout feature. This cutting-edge
venue will host conferences, exhibitions, and major events, enhancing
Penang’s reputation as a top business tourism spot. As part of the Light
City development, it will also include The Waterfront Shoppes mall, a
hotel, and an office tower.
The Waterfront Shoppes of The Light City, a masterplan highlight, features diverse F&B options and unique attractions. Photo Credit: The Light City
In a nod to the island’s rich history, the redevelopment of a
200-year-old warehouse near Fort Cornwallis and the Swettenham Pier
Cruise Terminal (SPCT) will introduce a shopping complex, hotel, and
outdoor dining options. This redevelopment supports the Ministry of
Transport’s vision to transform SPCT into a cruise hub and will be
complemented by the Fly & Cruise initiative and upgrades to the
Penang International Airport (PIA).
4,000 new rooms on the way
Penang is gearing up for a major hotel influx with 10 new hotels
adding 4,000 rooms. The Light City will debut the first JdV by Hyatt in
Malaysia with 156 rooms and the Galaxy Minyoun Penang, marking the
Southeast Asian debut of this Chinese hotel brand with 303 rooms.
Gurney Bay Hotel features 368 resort-style rooms, each offering stunning views of either the ocean or Penang Hill, ensuring a luxurious stay for all guests. Photo Credit: The Gurney Bay Hotel
The Gurney Bay Hotel, A Parkroyal Hotel, will open on 1 September
2024, featuring 368 rooms, resort-style living, and a range of
facilities including a restaurant, ballroom, meeting rooms, and a kids'
club. It will also offer outdoor tennis courts, swimming pools, steam
rooms, sauna rooms, and a 24/7 gym.
Adding to the island’s charm, the Marjorie Hotel will introduce 298 Peranakan-inspired rooms in Sungai Nibong in 2025.
More direct routes to Penang
Travel to Penang is set to become even easier with new flight routes.
AirAsia Malaysia will launch a Penang-Shenzhen route on 28 October
2024, followed by HK Express with Penang-Hong Kong flights on 21
November 2024.
Existing routes like Flydubai’s Penang-Dubai and Juneyao Airlines’
Penang-Shanghai will enhance accessibility, bringing more international
visitors to Penang and supporting its growing economy.