TRAVEL agents in Penang are strengthening efforts to attract more visitors to the state, amid global uncertainties and a challenging operating environment for the tourism industry this year.
Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Penang Chapter chairperson Carolyn Leong said industry players must work more closely with the government and stakeholders to sustain tourism growth and position Penang strongly for Visit Malaysia 2026.
“We will align with the state tourism authorities to further strengthen the industry in Penang.
“In view of the ongoing Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, MATTA is playing an important role as ambassadors in welcoming visitors to the country, and especially Penang,” she said.
Carolyn was speaking after being re-elected as chairperson for the 2026-2029 term during the chapter’s 30th annual general meeting (AGM) in George Town.
Among the initiatives planned to boost arrivals is the upcoming MATTA Fair 2026, which will be held from April 25 to 26 at the Penang Waterfront Convention Centre (PWCC), said Carolyn.
She said the AGM served as an important platform for members to review the past year, exchange ideas and discuss the future direction of the association.
“I look forward to working closely with all members and industry partners to further strengthen our association and promote the growth of tourism in Penang and Malaysia.
“MATTA Penang will continue engaging its members and industry partners to ensure the state remains competitive and attractive for both domestic and international travellers.”
Carolyn also expressed appreciation to key partners, including the Penang tourism and creative economy committee and various industry bodies.
These include the Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH), Malaysian Budget and Business Hotel Association (MyBHA), Penang Global Tourism (PGT), Penang Tourist Guides Association (PTGA), Penang Convention and Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) and Penang Centre of Medical Tourism (PMED).
She said MATTA Penang would continue working closely with these stakeholders to support the development and growth of the tourism industry in the years to come.
Supporting her leadership team are deputy chairman Lau Kye Pinn, treasurer S. Vidasagar and committee members Yeap Li Boon, Hazlina Abdul Rashid, Teoh Li Fung and Leong Mee Meng.
Additionally, Carolyn expressed appreciation to the chapter’s committee members for their dedication and support throughout the previous term, noting that their contributions had helped to drive the chapter’s activities and initiatives.
MATTA Penang currently has about 200 members comprising travel agencies and tourism-related businesses, reflecting Malaysia’s multiracial makeup, with the Malay, Chinese and Indian communities working together to support the sector, Carolyn added.
Also present at the meeting was MATTA president Nigel Wong. — By LO TERN CHERN
