THE MOU SIGNING CEREMONY BETWEEN PENANG GLOBAL TOURISM AND TRIP.COM GROUP
SPEECH BY YAB TUAN CHOW KON YEOW CARETAKER PENANG CHIEF MINISTER FOR THE MOU SIGNING CEREMONY BETWEEN PENANG GLOBAL TOURISM AND TRIP.COM GROUP
2 August 2023
Citidanes George Town Hotel, Lebuh Noordin
A very good afternoon to all of you.
Today marks a momentous occasion as we gather here to witness the signing of a significant Memorandum of Understanding between two prestigious entities: Penang Global Tourism and Trip.com Group. This partnership heralds a new era for tourism in our beloved state, and it fills me with great pride and optimism for Penang's future.
Tourism has always been a vital contributor to Penang's economy, and this collaboration represents the first global partnership between Trip.com Group and Penang. It also highlights the importance of global cooperation in our post-pandemic world, where we seek to revitalize and reignite the travel industry.
Penang Global Tourism, under the leadership of Mr. Ooi Chok Yan, and Trip.com Group, represented by Mr. Edison Chen, are two formidable forces coming together to propel Penang's tourism to greater heights. The MoU will focus on promotional partnerships across multiple markets, including Malaysia's domestic market, China, Singapore, UK, Hong Kong, US, South Korea, Australia, Japan, and Thailand over the next three years.
To fully embrace this new chapter, we recognize that a strong foundation is paramount. Thus, we have embarked on numerous initiatives to enhance Penang's infrastructure and transform it into a world-class destination. The Penang Hill Cable Car Project, for example, offers breathtaking experiences and efficient transportation, and is set to become an iconic attraction.
In addition, the expansion of Penang International Airport and the successful completion of the Penang Port expansion project will significantly increase our connectivity and accommodate a higher number of visitors, making Penang a strategic gateway for international commerce.
Moreover, the much-anticipated Penang LRT project, a key component of the Penang Transport Master Plan, will address traffic congestion and enhance overall mobility within the state. We have not overlooked leisure and recreation spaces, as the Gurney Bay project nears completion, offering a plethora of activities and attractions along the coastal charm of Penang.
Furthermore, the influx of modern and luxurious hotels and the opening of a new convention centre will raise the bar for hospitality in Penang, ensuring our visitors an unforgettable stay experience. Not to mention the remarkable transformation of the retail and healthcare sectors with the expansion and opening of Island Hospital, Sunway Hospital, and the Sunway Carnival's new wing, which play a critical role in our state's economy.
All these achievements are a testament to the collective dedication and vision of the government, the private sector, and the people of Penang.
With our improved infrastructure, world-class attractions, and exceptional hospitality, Penang is poised to regain its position as a must-visit destination.
To travellers from around the world, I extend an open invitation to experience the wonders of Penang—a place where cultural diversity, natural beauty, and warm hospitality converge. Together, let us embark on this exciting journey as we usher in a new era for Penang tourism.
I congratulate Penang Global Tourism and Trip.com Group on this historic partnership and the signing of the first MOU between the two entities after the pandemic. This collaboration sets a new precedent for global partnerships with Malaysian states, covering multiple markets, and will undoubtedly contribute to the growth and prosperity of Penang's tourism industry.
Thank you all for being a part of this momentous occasion. Let us forge ahead with determination, optimism, and unity, as we paint a bright and prosperous future for Penang and its tourism sector.
Thank you.
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