GEORGE TOWN – Penang Hill Corporation (PHC) has questioned the methodology applied by the US newspaper USA Today in ranking the hill as the ninth “tourist trap” and 14th “most overrated attraction” in its global survey released last month.
The article by USA Today relied on reviews from only one source, which is the Google reviews platform and from a pool of 3,737 reviews (until July 2023).
As per the authors, only 21 out of 3,737 reviews think it is a tourist trap (0.56%) and six out of 3,737 reviews (0.16%) said it's overrated.
“Please note that it is a small sample size and an inaccurate representation of 3,737 over five million visitors to Penang Hill during the five-year period of the review,” said PHC.
The methodology used is grossly inaccurate and flawed as the analysis is based solely on reviews from a single platform and it does not capture the majority with positive experience on the hill, it said in a statement.
“To amplify a small number of reviews (0.7% from 3,737 of the total Google reviews out of the 5 million visitors) and list Penang Hill as a top attraction worldwide in negative light is misleading, with intentions best known to the authors themselves.
“While PHC respects the opinions of individual visitors, the organisation believes that it is crucial to view such assessments in the context of a wider visitor base.
“This is to stay objective, unbiased and accurate”, said PHC.
The review by USA Today came just as the hill marked the 100-year anniversary of its funicular trains, which are now into their third generation of upgrade – ferrying hundreds of visitors daily to the summit of the hill, which overlooks major parts of the island.
Like any popular tourist destination around the world, queues at Penang Hill will inevitably be long during school holidays, popular weekends and public holidays.
“PHC always advises visitors to come early to avoid long queues and plan their trips in advance to maximise their experience at this must-visit destination in Penang, riding up the hill on the third-generation funicular along the century-year-old railway.”
Penang Hill is a popular family-oriented tourist destination as well as a recently designated Unesco Biosphere Reserve site that retains its natural and historical characteristics.
The hill is nestled within million-year-old natural rainforest reserves that offer visitors a unique experience with nature and its rich historical heritage.
There will not be theme parks and entertainment outlets.
“We encourage visitors to explore the natural beauty of Penang Hill via the bypaths and hiking trails for visitors to get closer to nature.
“PHC takes pride in providing an affordable yet enriching experience for both local and international visitors, ensuring that the place is accessible to all,” read the statement.
The funicular ticket price remains one of the most affordable prices in the region.
“PHC will continue to enhance the amenities and facilities to bring a richer and unique experience to the Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve through various family and nature-oriented activities.
“We are constantly upgrading our amenities to enhance the comfort and experience of our visitors. We are working on improvement plans and cable car installation as one of the enhancements to be installed on the hill to address traffic and to enhance visitors’ comfort,” added PHC.
The cable car system will help to balance visitors and traffic congestion. It will also aid the funicular system for increased reliability, safety and system operational lifespan.
Penang Hill welcomes the writers and critics to discover its uniqueness and experience its hospitality.
“See the nature, feel the history,” it said. – The Vibes, September 28, 2023
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