GEORGE TOWN, Malaysia, 16 January 2025: Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) leads the 8th Edition of the Penang Roadshow to India 2025 on tour until 20 January 2025.
The annual initiative launched in 2017 (virtual during the Covid pandemic) underscores PCEB’s commitment to strengthening ties with the Indian market, a key player in Penang’s tourism and business events sectors.
This year’s roadshow, themed “Discover Penang”, visits four major Indian cities from 13 to 20 January: Mumbai (13 January), New Delhi (15 January), Kolkata (17 January), and Chennai (20 January), with each venue drawing approximately 200 buyers and 30 media representatives.
A shoutout for the 2025 roadshow is the new direct airline services between Penang and Chennai on IndiGo Airlines, which is clearly a game-changer for both Penang and the Indian market. This direct flight simplifies travel and unlocks new opportunities for business and leisure.
Chennai’s strategic location serves as a vital connecting hub, offering connecting flight access to Penang for passengers from 32 domestic cities in India, including major cities such as Bengaluru, Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai. Additionally, these flights have an inclusive 30kg baggage allowance, making them an attractive option for leisure and business travellers.
In addition, Malaysia has officially extended its visa exemption for Indian nationals until 31 December 2026. This exemption allows Indian visitors to enter Malaysia for up to 30 days without a visa. The new policy further enhances Malaysia’s appeal as a destination and provides seamless entry for Indian visitors to explore Penang’s diverse offerings.
“This new connection strengthens the bond between our regions, making Penang more accessible and enabling greater collaboration. It will undoubtedly elevate the experience for buyers attending the roadshow and foster long-term growth in tourism and business events,” said PCEB Chief Executive Officer Ashwin Gunasekeran.
The roadshow features an impressive lineup of exhibitors from Malaysia: Ace Conferences & Exhibitions, Apollo Holidays Malaysia, Asian Overland Services Tours and Travel, By The Blanket, dQuest Ventures, G Hotel, Jeya Berjaya Travel & Tours, Lone Pine, Penang – A Tribute Portfolio Resort, Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre, Mitways Transport & Tours, Oscar Holidays, Tourism Malaysia, and IndiGo Airlines.
India continues to be a vital source market for Malaysia. In 2024, Malaysia welcomed 1,009,114 Indian visitors from January to November, surpassing its target of 1 million. This achievement represents a 71.7% increase compared to 2023, reaffirming Malaysia’s status as a preferred destination for Indian travellers. The roadshow aims to further bolster these numbers by showcasing Penang’s unique attractions and strategic initiatives.
“Penang’s charm lies in its ability to offer something for everyone — be it cultural experiences, culinary delights, or world-class venues. With the continuation of the free-visa initiative, we anticipate a significant increase in tourist arrivals, allowing Indian visitors to immerse themselves fully in Penang’s unique offerings,” said Penang State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy YB Wong Hon Wai.
In 2024, Penang hosted 1,900 events, attracting 296,630 delegates and generating an estimated economic impact of MYR1.27 billion. These impressive figures underscore Penang’s reputation as a leading destination for regional business events. The roadshow builds on this momentum, positioning Penang as the ideal choice for Indian buyers and stakeholders.
