GEORGE TOWN: While many Malaysians associate batik with Terengganu’s famed craftsmanship, few realise that Penang has its own distinctive batik heritage, a creative blend of traditional motifs and island-inspired designs that reflect the state’s rich cultural tapestry.
Batik designer Roslan Hussin, 55, said that with its Pinang tree leaves and flower motifs, Penang batik designs use the same fabric as other batik but reflect a modern concept.
“Our batik is suitable for everyone, regardless of race or religion; it is also well known among tourists,” he said.
Roslan was one of the 54 exhibitors at the Star Karnival Cuti-Cuti Malaysia at Gurney Paragon Mall, where the three-day event was held.
Roslan, who won the Piala Seri Endon in 2008 and 2010, said that events such as Star Karnival are important for Cuti-Cuti Malaysia to promote local tourism products.
Roslan, who has more than 40 years of experience in the industry, said that besides sarongs, Penang batik can be turned into shawls, scarves, shirts, and other items.
Other than batik, the event brings together 54 exhibitors, including travel agencies, hotels, resorts, theme parks, tourist attractions, homestay operators, destination specialists, and others from across the country.
Manazel Mashaer Travel executive director Siti Norsyazwani Mohd Lokman said those looking to experience a “mini Maldives” getaway can opt for a four-day, three-night full-board package to Pulau Semporna, Sabah, priced at RM1,690.
“We also offer a four-day, three-night trip to Kundasang, Kota Kinabalu, for RM1,290,” she said, adding that with the rising cost of overseas travel, local destinations such as Semporna and Kundasang offer excellent value for money.
She said both destinations have grown increasingly popular among domestic travellers, especially families and young couples seeking a scenic and affordable retreat without leaving the country.
Artworks Hotel in Ipoh is offering a 20% discount on its rooms, and those wishing to visit Ipoh can do so during the three-day carnival.
Sales and marketing officer Lokman Nur Hakim Samsuddin said the hotel is a three-storey building, beautifully designed, with 62 guest rooms featuring thoughtful amenities to ensure an unrivalled sense of comfort
“Our hotel offers free high-speed fibre-optic Wi-Fi in all rooms and the lobby, while each room is equipped with a 43" LED TV that provides various channels to keep you well entertained.
"The hotel provides 24-hour front desk services, daily housekeeping, in-house security control and many more," he said.
Guests wanting to explore Ipoh can do so by visiting various attractive places near the hotel, such as Kellie's Castle, Pasar Karat, Kinta Riverwalk, and many other locations.
Star Karnival Cuti-Cuti Malaysia was on its second day, drawing crowds as festivities kicked off at 10am on Saturday (Nov 1).
Among the early visitors spotted at the event was civil servant Ahmad Dasiman Abdul Ghani, 45, who arrived with his family from Seberang Jaya as early as 9.30am.
Ahmad Dasiman said he plans to visit Kuala Lumpur with his family during the upcoming school holidays and was delighted to find hotel deals offering discounts of up to 40%.
“I think it’s great that this carnival promotes local tourism destinations; it not only encourages families to explore the country but also helps boost the national economy,” he said.
He added that such initiatives create awareness of hidden gems across Malaysia, making travel more accessible and inspiring more people to plan local getaways.
Teacher Tenh Siew Kin, 53, praised the event and described it as promoting the local tourism destination to new heights.
“Malaysia has plenty of destinations that are yet to be discovered, and ultimately, this can help promote them in Malaysia," she said.
She said she also grabbed the opportunity to take the glamping package, which she bought at a 50% discount.
Many other exciting packages await at the three-day carnival, an ongoing collaboration between Tourism Malaysia and Star Media Group to boost local travel ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026.
The Penang roadshow is the fourth in a series of six, following earlier ones in Pahang, Selangor and Sarawak.
It is open daily from 10am to 10pm until Sunday and offers other exciting activities such as heritage food sampling, cultural dance performances and lucky draws.
