GEORGE TOWN, Feb 3 (Bernama) -- Penang is keen on fostering stronger ties and creating new opportunities for tourism growth with Uzbekistan, said State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai.
"Penang and Uzbekistan may be geographically distant, but we are united by a shared passion for cultural heritage, tourism, and economic collaboration.
"As we strengthen our tourism ties, I hope that this collaboration will not only increase visitor exchanges between Uzbekistan and Penang but also enhance mutual understanding and economic growth," he told reporters at today's Uzbekistan-Malaysia Tourism Forum here.
He said that Penang International Airport (PIA) was Malaysia's second busiest airport after Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) in 2024 due to the state's strategic location.
He added that last year, PIA recorded 7.47 million passengers, a 7.07 per cent increase from 2023, due to 12 new international routes linking Penang to major cities such as Dubai, Doha, Shanghai, Xiamen, Hong Kong, and Chennai.
"With continued expansion plans, we anticipate even stronger connectivity in the years ahead, making it easier for travellers from Uzbekistan and beyond to visit Penang," he said.
He said Uzbekistan Airways and Batik Air currently operate four direct weekly flights from Kuala Lumpur to Tashkent.
"This is a good start because of Penang's well-established domestic connectivity, drawing tourists to explore the state's rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and world-class gastronomy.
"We also recognise that Uzbekistan is home to a predominantly Muslim population and Penang, with its rich Islamic heritage and abundance of halal-certified dining options, is well-positioned to cater to Muslim travellers seeking a comfortable and welcoming environment," he added.
--BERNAMA
