Cambodia Airways will commence twice weekly direct flights between Phnom Penh and Penang from June 26, becoming the only airline to serve this route. It is expected to boost inbound tourism to Malaysia’s northern region, particularly benefitting Penang and neighbouring states.
Malaysia Inbound Tourism Association (MITA) president, Mint Leong, welcomes the new service, noting that it will significantly improve connectivity between Malaysia’s northern region and Cambodia, opening up fresh opportunities for two-way leisure and business travel.
She said: “Penang hospitals will also benefit as it becomes easier for Cambodian patients to seek specialised medical treatment here. Many of our private healthcare facilities here already have a strong reputation for affordability and high-quality care.”
Leong said MITA is eager to collaborate with outbound agents from Cambodia to further stimulate travel demand and promote Malaysia’s northern region as a multifaceted destination.
She added: “We are willing to host fam trips to give them first hand experience of Penang and the northern region’s tourism offerings, thus making it easier for them to develop compelling travel packages.”
In support of the new service, Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau’s CEO Ashwin Gunasekeran led his team on a courtesy visit to Cambodia Airways headquarters in Phnom Penh on June 17.
Discussions focused on potential marketing collaboration, joint initiatives to raise awareness of the new connection, and opportunities to foster deeper ties between Penang and Cambodia. These efforts are designed to support the long-term viability of the route and encourage stronger two-way engagement.
