THE future of tourism in Penang lies in the Prai mainland despite the bulk of the present leisure activities mostly confined to the tiny island.
While the island boasts of the tranquil sea, heritage buildings, retail, medical - tourism and gastronomy, the state executive councillor for tourism opined that the state is promoting balanced marketing between the island and Prai.
But Wong Hon Wai stressed that the state is positioning Prai as the catalyst for the state's future economic, tourism expansion.
To diversify tourism offerings, the state had launched the "Opposite Side of the Island – Seberang Perai" campaign, showcasing that the mainland can also provide retail, medical - tourism and glorious food for tourists to sample.
This initiative seeks to draw both domestic and international visitors to explore Prai's unique attractions, particularly its agrotourism and ecotourism sites, while the private sector, namely the hoteliers and travel agents were encouraged to promote Prai, said Wong.
Also, the upgrading of the highway between Juru - Sungai Dua has been announced and upon completion will improve intra - mainland travel, he noted in an interview.
These comprehensive plans and initiatives underscore the commitment to transforming Prai into a vibrant, sustainable, and accessible tourist destination, complementing the attractions of the island.
In addition, there are new four stars and five stars hotels been built in Seberang Perai - Butterworth Crown Plaza Hotel, The Light Hotel in Prai, Holiday Inn in Juru, Iconic Hotel in Bukit Tengah.
Such hotels would serve the domestic and international tourists demand, said Wong.
To illustrate the state's determination to promote Prai, Wong disclosed that the Penang Bridge International Marathon, the biggest mass sport in event in Penang has been moved to start at Batu Kawan last year.
Other events like Butterworth Fringe Festival, Butterworth Chingay Parade, Nibong Tebal Festival, Penang International Food Festival@ Batu Kawan were also organised on the mainland to generate a tourism appeal.
Eco - tourism and heritage attractions such as Kampung Agong, St Anne Church, Butterworth Tow Boo Kong temple, Butterworth Art Walk and the Design Village Outlet Mall were also promoted. - February 23, 2025.
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