GEORGE TOWN: The agreement between Malaysia and Thailand to resume train services between Bangkok, Padang Besar and Butterworth enhances Penang's potential to become the gateway to Southeast Asia and further solidifying its role as a regional transportation hub.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said this new development is also expected to further boost the tourism sector in Penang while strengthening bilateral relations between Malaysia and Thailand.
"This railway line will link major cities in southern Thailand with Penang’s tourism network, connecting multiple tourist destinations in Malaysia and Thailand and forming a travel corridor across the Peninsula.
"Travellers can explore Indo-China and then travel by train from Bangkok to Penang, enjoying the scenic landscapes and the rhythmic sound of the train as it traverses through picturesque views,” he said in a statement on Thursday (Aug 22).
He added that this new train route not only adds a convenient travel option between Thailand and Malaysia but also offers backpackers and young travellers a novel journey experience.
Wong said he believed that this service would enhance Penang’s accessibility by land, sea, and air, thus attracting more international tourists and further driving the growth of Penang’s tourism industry.
Echoing the same sentiment, Penang Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry (Motac) director Dr Annuar Mohamed said this news would significantly benefit the country's tourism sector, particularly in Penang and Perlis.
He said this service will also provide tourists from both Malaysia and Thailand with an opportunity to experience a different mode of travel besides air transport.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the proposed resumption of direct train services between Bangkok, Padang Besar and Butterworth, would bring more business activity to Penang.
He said in addition to bringing tourists to both directions including to this state, it is also a business opportunity for companies in this state.
"We welcome the announcement and it means traffic flow in terms of passengers and cargo will increase, it is a business opportunity for companies in Penang.
"In addition to bringing tourists both ways, it is also an alternative form of transport to what is already available," he told reporters here on Thursday (Aug 22).
He said this when commenting on a press report that Malaysia and Thailand agreed to resume direct train services between Bangkok, Padang Besar and Butterworth. - Bernama
