GEORGE TOWN, August 7 – Trip.com Group and Penang Global Tourism (PGT) have taken their existing partnership to new heights by signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to extend their collaboration to a global level. The new MOU signifies a significant milestone in the relationship between the two organizations, as Trip.com Group’s platforms, including Trip.com and Ctrip, will now promote inbound tourism to Penang on a global scale over the next three years.
This expansion will open up Penang as a tourist destination to travelers from key global markets, including mainland China, Singapore, South Korea, Japan, and Australia. While Trip.com Group and PGT have been working together since 2016, this agreement represents several firsts. Trip.com Group becomes PGT’s first global partner, signifying a deeper and more comprehensive commitment to promoting tourism in Penang worldwide. In turn, PGT is Trip.com Group’s first global partner within Malaysia, solidifying the significance of Penang as a prime destination within the country.
Additionally, the MOU marks a pivotal moment as it represents the first post-pandemic agreement between the two organizations, emphasizing their determination to revitalize the tourism industry. Mr. Bo Sun, Chief Marketing Officer of Trip.com Group, expressed, “Our partnership with Penang Global Tourism has grown stronger over the years, and together, we have faced the challenges brought about by the pandemic. As we continue to navigate the changing travel landscape and consumer behaviors, we are committed to introducing diverse and innovative travel products to promote Penang’s attractions to a global audience.
Through our strengthened collaboration, we aim to facilitate a swift recovery for Penang’s tourism industry and drive sustainable growth in the post-pandemic era. YAB Chow Kon Yeow, the Caretaker Penang Chief Minister, highlighted the importance of tourism in Penang’s economic prosperity. He remarked, “Tourism remains a vital lifeline in our pursuit of progress and prosperity. As we forge this historic partnership with Trip.com Group, the first of its kind in Malaysia and spanning ten markets, we reiterate our commitment to embracing the world with open arms. Tourism propels Penang forward, fueling economic growth and enriching lives across the state.”
With this new global partnership, Trip.com Group and Penang Global Tourism are set to bring the beauty and cultural richness of Penang to the world stage, attracting international travelers and contributing to the growth and development of the tourism industry in the region. Together, they look forward to a bright future, driving the recovery and success of Penang’s tourism sector in the post-pandemic era.
