GEORGE TOWN – Travel enthusiasts, especially in the northern region, can look forward to more convenient access to the cultural paradise of Bali when AirAsia begins operating a direct flight between Penang and the famous Indonesian island.
Penang executive councillor Yeoh Soon Hin, who oversees the state’s tourism portfolio, today said the budget airline has decided to fly directly between Penang and Bali from Sunday (October 16).
Speaking at a press conference in Komtar here, he hailed the move as one that will also boost the arrival of regional tourists to Penang.
Currently, AirAsia provides up to 156 flights weekly to Penang International Airport in Bayan Lepas.
Meanwhile, Air Asia’s head of commercial Liyana Mahizzan urged travellers to plan ahead for their trips and vacations if they want to truly enjoy cost savings.
“We are also doing our best to keep costs down so that the benefits can be shared with the consumers, but it is best to book in advance to enjoy cost savings,” she said.
She was asked about complaints from the travel trade community that airfares continue to skyrocket, especially for domestic destinations.
She said the airfares are largely driven by market forces, which tend to come at various periods.
Liyana also said that Australians make up most foreign arrivals into Bali. Penang can tap into the Australian tourist market better with the direct connection to Bali.
Penang and Bali are also listed among the top-10 island resorts in Southeast Asia.
Indonesian consul-general Bambang Suharto, who is based in Penang, thanked both the state and AirAsia for taking the initiative to work with their Bali counterparts.
“It will surely boost tourism between Penang and Bali, while further extending it to Malaysia and Indonesia generally,” he said.
Separately, Yeoh also announced that the globally renowned Michelin Guide has in principle agreed to survey and rate the gastronomic delights of Penang.
A memorandum of understanding would soon be inked on the matter. – The Vibes, October 12, 2022
