Summary
- Penang is stepping up efforts to develop Seberang Perai as a major tourism destination alongside the island.
- More than 80 tourism industry players joined the Mainland Consortium Meeting 2026 in Butterworth.
- International hotel brands are expanding their presence, signalling growing confidence in the mainland market.
- The Penang Bridge International Marathon is expected to bring more than 25,000 runners to Batu Kawan in December.
BUTTERWORTH, September 4 — Seberang Perai is emerging as an increasingly important “second wing” of Penang’s tourism industry, state tourism executive councillor Wong Hon Wai said.
More than 80 industry representatives met in Butterworth to discuss tourism products, collaboration and future growth.
Wong said the mainland offers distinctive opportunities in nature, heritage, rural tourism, food and river experiences that complement Penang Island.
Growing investment by international hotel brands also reflects confidence in the market, he said. The Penang Bridge International Marathon on Dec 13 is expected to bring more than 25,000 runners.
And their families to Batu Kawan, providing further economic and tourism exposure for Seberang Perai.
