As Malaysia looks ahead to Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2026, Penang has emerged as one of the country’s flagship destinations for sustainable, experience-driven travel. The state has unveiled an ambitious plan that combines new tourism products, heritage conservation and eco-friendly development to support Malaysia’s national goal of welcoming 50 million international visitors by 2026.
Penang’s tourism roadmap highlights a curated mix of new attractions and revitalised cultural assets designed to appeal to both returning visitors and first-time travellers. The Penang State EXCO for Tourism, Creative Economy and Arts (PETACE) has emphasised that the state intends to become a leading model for responsible tourism in Malaysia — one that balances growth with preservation.
Key to this strategy is a strong focus on sustainability. Penang’s plans centre on green mobility, heritage protection, digital innovation and community participation, all aimed at ensuring that tourism growth enhances the wellbeing of residents while enriching the visitor experience.
Several major developments have been highlighted as part of the new Penang tourism portfolio: the Penang Hill UNESCO Biosphere Reserve will continue to be positioned as a premier nature-based attraction, promoting guided trails, conservation activities and low-impact recreation; meanwhile, George Town’s cultural districts, including its well-known street art, architecture and historic shophouses, will benefit from enhanced preservation and tourism management.
In addition, new waterfront and creative-industry zones are being developed to diversify Penang’s tourism offerings and support the state’s growing arts, culture and events scene. Elsewhere, upgraded attractions and new tourism products, including museums, galleries and themed experiences, aim to broaden the appeal for families, culture-seekers and leisure travellers.
These initiatives underscore Penang’s commitment to delivering fresh, high-quality experiences while safeguarding the cultural and natural heritage that defines the island.
Sustainability sits at the core of Penang’s tourism strategy. The state is prioritising projects that reduce environmental impact, elevate community benefits and create a more resilient tourism economy. This includes investments in:
- Eco-friendly public transport and pedestrian-friendly precincts
- Community-based tourism initiatives that empower local residents
- Waste-management and renewable-energy improvements for tourism zones
- Green certification programmes for hotels and tourism businesses
By taking a long-term and holistic approach, Penang aims to set a benchmark for responsible tourism that other Malaysian destinations can follow.
With its blend of rich culture, vibrant food scene, pristine nature and forward-thinking sustainability initiatives, Penang is well-positioned to become a central highlight of Visit Malaysia Year 2026. As international promotions ramp up and new attractions come online, the state is gearing up to welcome visitors seeking meaningful, eco-conscious and memorable travel experiences.
Penang’s message for 2026 is clear: the island is ready to showcase a greener, more innovative and more sustainable side of Malaysia — one that reflects the country’s evolving tourism identity and its aspirations for the future.
