BATU KAWAN, 10 January 2026 — Penang’s tourism sector is expected to sustain strong momentum in 2026, with more than eight million visitors projected to arrive via Penang International Airport, driven by new international flight routes and major national tourism campaigns.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the outlook for the year remains positive, supported by expanding air connectivity, particularly from Asia and Southeast Asia.
“Last year, Penang International Airport recorded approximately eight million passenger movements, though official figures are still pending finalisation,” he said.
“This year will see further announcements of new direct international routes to Penang, including AirAsia flights from Phuket, and Spring Airlines flights from Shanghai and Guangzhou,” he told reporters after officiating the Nanhai Treasures – Commemorating the 400th Anniversary of the Wanli Shipwreck exhibition at Eco Horizon here.
Wong added that additional international routes expected to be announced this year could further boost arrivals from Southeast Asia, India and China, reinforcing Penang’s position as a leading tourism destination in the region.
He also expressed optimism that tourism growth in 2026 will be supported by the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) and Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism 2026 (MYMT2026) campaigns.
“Penang’s strengths lie in its internationally accredited medical facilities and diverse tourism products. These will continue to drive the state’s economic growth through tourism,” he said.
Immigration upgrades to ease passenger flow
Separately, Wong said the Home Ministry’s National Integrated Immigration System (NIISe) at Penang International Airport is expected to further enhance the travel experience for tourists.
The system, which was introduced following past complaints over long queues at manual immigration counters, is designed to reduce congestion and speed up clearance processes.
According to Wong, NIISe is already operational in the departure hall and is scheduled to be launched in the arrival hall in the coming weeks, ahead of the Chinese New Year, to ensure smoother travel for both locals and international visitors.
