Batik Air expanded its network from Penang International Airport (PEN) with the launch of two new routes — Singapore (SIN) and Kualanamu, Medan (KNO). These inaugural services reinforce Penang’s position as a northern gateway for travellers, while strengthening the airline’s footprint in northern Malaysia and connecting passengers to key regional markets.

Singapore remains Malaysia’s largest source of international visitors, with 14.0 million arrivals recorded in January to August 2025 — an 18.1% increase from the same period in 2024. The addition of the Penang–Singapore route taps into strong demand for short-haul leisure trips, weekend getaways, and business travel, offering Singaporeans seamless access to Penang’s rich cultural heritage, iconic food scene, and vibrant tourism offerings.

Meanwhile, Penang–Medan flights cater to rising demand for medical and wellness tourism from Indonesia, providing Indonesian travellers with a convenient gateway to the island’s renowned healthcare services, while also offering leisure travel opportunities across Malaysia’s northern corridor.

Batik Air Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy, said: "Penang has long been a strategic base for Batik Air in northern Malaysia. Alongside our existing services to Kuala Lumpur (KLIA and SZB) and Jakarta (CGK), these new routes to Singapore and Medan strengthen the city’s role as a northern hub, providing travellers with direct access to key regional markets."

"This expansion is part of our broader vision to make Penang a gateway that supports tourism, business, and medical travel, while building a future-ready network that anticipates the evolving needs of travellers. With Visit Malaysia Year 2026 approaching, these connections will play an important role in welcoming more visitors to the region and showcasing all that Penang and northern Malaysia have to offer," he added.

Penang State Executive Councillor (EXCO) for Tourism and Creative Economy, YB Wong Hon Wai said: "Batik Air’s continued expansion in Penang reflects the growing confidence in our state as the premier gateway to Northern Malaysia. The launch of new connections to Singapore and Medan further strengthens Penang’s role as a strategic hub for tourism, business travel, and medical tourism. These routes will not only enhance regional connectivity but also support local industries by opening more doors for international visitors.”

“As we prepare for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and Malaysia Medical Tourism Year 2026, Penang is committed to working closely with airline partners to create seamless travel experiences and elevate our tourism ecosystem. We welcome Batik Air’s commitment and look forward to building a vibrant, well-connected future for Penang and the region."

YBrs. Mr. Samuel Lee, Deputy Director General Promotion (II) of Tourism Malaysia, welcomed the initiative, saying that: “With the new direct routes, Malaysia’s visibility as a tourist destination will be enhanced as Penang becomes more accessible for visitors. This effort will certainly contribute to the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) target of 47 million international visitors. Aligned with the aim to showcase Malaysia as a top destination to them, Penang’s unique charms—from preserved colonial and traditional heritage to its beautiful nature landscape and adventurous parks—await international visitors to enhance their travel experience.”

The launch of these two routes is a step forward for Penang and for travellers who rely on easier access across the region. With stronger links to Singapore and Indonesia, the northern gateway becomes a little closer to the world, opening fresh opportunities for tourism, business and medical travel.

For more information and to plan your next journey, download Batik Air mobile app or visit www.batikair.com.my

This content is provided by Batik Air

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