Kuala Lumpur: Tourist areas in Penang, particularly along the beach and Bukit Bendera, witnessed significant crowds during this year’s Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations and the accompanying one-week school holidays.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai reported that the tourism industry in Penang has shown steady growth, countering claims that the state did not attract tourists during the eight-day holiday period. Wong highlighted the latest data indicating that more than 51,000 visitors rode the Penang Hill train from March 28 onwards, describing the figure as encouraging.

Responding to criticism from the Gerakan party about the state government’s alleged lack of creativity in boosting tourism, Wong elaborated on efforts to enhance tourist experiences. He mentioned the collaboration between Penang Hill Corporation (PBBPP), Rapid Penang, and the Penang government to provide a free shuttle bus service to Bukit Bendera during the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations, aiming to alleviate traffic congestion. The service operated from March 29 to April 2, with buses running every hour and a half.

Wong also noted that other tourist hotspots, especially the beach stretch from Tanjung Bunga to Batu Ferringhi, were bustling with holidaymakers. While specific visitor numbers were unavailable for these areas, Wong emphasized the high tourist turnout overall. He also observed that popular nasi kandar restaurants were crowded with patrons eager to savor the local cuisine.

In contrast, Penang Malaysian Hotel Association (MAH) chairman Datuk Tony Goh reported that the state’s hotel booking rate stood at approximately 50 percent, with higher occupancy rates of 60 to 70 percent in the Batu Ferringhi area since March 28. Goh explained that the trend aligns with the Malay community’s tradition of returning to their hometowns for Hari Raya Aidilfitri, resulting in fewer hotel stays. However, Penang benefits from foreign tourists who continue to visit during this time.

Additionally, a BERNAMA survey revealed congestion on the Penang Bridge and major roads on the island, particularly in George Town and Batu Ferringhi. Popular sites like Chew Jetty, Tan Jetty, Armenian Street, Bukit Bendera, and Padang Kota attracted many visitors, further underscoring the state’s tourist appeal during the festive period.