Penang launched “Not the Penang You Know” in Hatyai, Thailand, to boost tourism ties, highlighting new attractions like Bertam Resort and Design Village. The MySawasdee train service (Q3 2024) aims to increase cross-border travel.
The Penang government has launched the “Not the Penang You Know” campaign in Southern Thailand to strengthen tourism and cultural ties while promoting Penang as a premier destination. The campaign was introduced during the Experience Penang Networking Session in Hatyai, organized by Penang Global Tourism, bringing together Thai and Malaysian tourism stakeholders. State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai highlighted the upcoming MySawasdee train service between Hatyai and Penang as a key opportunity to reconnect with traditional markets.
The campaign encourages visitors to explore beyond George Town’s heritage sites and street food, showcasing attractions like art spaces, wellness retreats, cycling holidays, and traditional crafts. New highlights include the Bertam Resort and Water Park, Design Village outlet mall, and the Penang History Gallery.
The networking session featured 24 Penang-based tourism operators, fostering cross-border collaboration.Wong emphasized Penang’s shared cultural and historical ties with Southern Thailand, citing landmarks like Wat Chaiyamangkalaram and figures like Khaw Sim Bee Na Ranong. He noted a 41% increase in Thai arrivals at Penang International Airport last year, supported by direct flights, road, and rail links. With 1.6 million Thai tourists visiting Malaysia last year—80% via land or train—Penang hopes to attract more visitors through enhanced connectivity and its growing reputation as a hub for education and business events.
