PENANG wants to tap into Myanmar’s tourism market after Yangon–Penang direct flights launched in April 2025 recorded more than 15,000 passengers.
“The figures indicate the route’s potential to attract international travellers and provide a useful foundation for Penang to further expand its overseas visitor markets,” said state tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai.
Increased flight frequency would give travellers greater flexibility while creating opportunities for tourism operators to develop packages catering to leisure, medical tourism, family visits and business travel, he added.
The Myanmar Airways International (MAI) Yangon–Penang route initially operated twice weekly but increased to three flights on June 27 this year.
As at July 31, it operated 140 flights with a cumulative total of 15,885 passengers since its launch last year.
Malaysians accounted for 4% of the passengers, while the remaining 96% were Myanmar nationals and other foreign travellers, said Wong during the Myanmar-Penang Tourism Partnership event in George Town.
He said the two-hour flight was a convenient option for travellers seeking short-haul holidays within South-East Asia.
Improved connectivity would also encourage closer collaboration between tourism operators in Penang and Myanmar.
“By working together, we can develop travel packages that respond to travellers’ interests and expectations,” he said.
Wong said Penang had been actively pursuing markets across Asia and Europe to diversify its visitor base while continuing to prioritise South-East Asia because of its geographical proximity, convenient transport links and established people-to-people connections.
He said Penang and Myanmar shared longstanding historical and cultural ties.
Among the links is the Dhammikarama Burmese Temple on Lorong Burma, established in 1805 and recognised as the oldest Burmese Buddhist temple outside Myanmar.
Several roads in Penang, including Jalan Rangoon, Jalan Irrawaddi, Jalan Mandalay, Jalan Tavoy, Jalan Salween, Jalan Moulmein, Lorong Burma and Solok Burma, also reflect the historical connection.
“The state government will continue working with airline and industry partners to promote Penang and stimulate demand for the route.
“We also look forward to the opportunity to lead a delegation of Penang tourism industry players on a familiarisation visit to Myanmar in the future,” said Wong.
Also present during the event were MAI chief executive officer Tanes Kumar Maniam and Penang Global Tourism chief executive officer Ooi Chok Yan.
Tanes Kumar said, “By the end of this year, we will be growing our fleet size to 20 aircraft.
He said Myanmar aimed to attract more Malaysian travellers by promoting a range of experiences, from heritage and spiritual tourism to beach and island getaways, wellness and slow tourism.
The airline currently has a fleet of 14 aircraft and maintains a 100% accident-free record.
