Wong Hon Wai Facebook picture.
GEORGE TOWN: In conjunction with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China, Penang has welcomed Juneyao Airlines’ inaugural direct flight from Shanghai Pudong International Airport.
The flight landed at 10.54pm at Penang International Airport here yesterday and was welcomed with a water cannon salute, also marking the first entry of Juneyao Airlines into Malaysia.
State tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the direct flight from Shanghai to Penang would attract more tourists to the state and further promote the development of the local tourism industry.
“Various sectors of Penang’s tourism industry, such as hotels, restaurants, retail and entertainment outlets, will benefit from this.
“The arrival of tourists from the eastern region of China will bring more business opportunities and economic growth, thus driving Penang’s tourism industry to a higher level,” he said in a statement, reported Bernama.
Wong said the direct flight from Shanghai to Penang would also be an important route for business travellers from the eastern region of China, improving connectivity and cooperation potential between the two cities.
He added it would also promote economic ties, opening new avenues for business exchanges, investment opportunities and corporate collaborations, thus contributing to the economic growth and development of both Penang and Shanghai.
Wong Hon Wai Facebook picture.
Wong said currently, the Airbus A320neo aircraft with a capacity of 180 passengers and a travel time of approximately five hours and 30 minutes, operates four times a week, on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.
However, Juneyao Airlines has announced there would be daily flights from June 22.
Shangai-Penang marks the third new international direct flight to Penang this year after the launch of direct flights to Penang from Dubai by Flydubai in February and from Bangkok by Thai Lion Air in April.
Penang welcomed 22,420 tourists from China in the first three months of this year, a 370.22% increase compared with the corresponding period last year that saw only 4,768 tourists.
As of yesterday, Penang has direct flights to 15 international cities, namely Guangzhou, Xiamen, Hong Kong, Dubai, Singapore, Bangkok, Phuket, Medan, Jakarta, Surabaya, Banda Aceh, Taipei, Ho Chi Minh City, Shanghai, Haikou (charter flight) and the upcoming Shenzhen flight on July 27.
