GEORGE TOWN, Dec 26 (Bernama) — Penang continues to be a top destination for both domestic and foreign tourists during the school holidays and Christmas celebrations, with hotel bookings showing strong performance, particularly in major tourist areas.
Penang Malaysian Hotel Association (MAH) chairman Datuk Tony Goh said hotel occupancy rates during the school holiday period and the Christmas weekend ranged between 70 and 90 per cent, underscoring the state’s appeal as a family-friendly holiday destination.
“On average, weekday hotel occupancy in Penang stands at about 70 per cent, which is still considered healthy despite the growing number of new hotels in the state that have somewhat slowed weekday bookings.
“However, in conjunction with Christmas and this weekend, hotel room bookings, especially in urban areas such as George Town and Batu Ferringhi, have recorded a significant increase compared to normal days,” he said when contacted by Bernama today.
Goh said that the opening of several new hotels, expected to begin operations next year, would further strengthen Penang’s hospitality and tourism sector while providing more accommodation options for visitors.
Meanwhile, State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee Chairman Wong Hon Wai said major tourist attractions have seen a surge in visitors since the school holidays began last Friday.
He said Bukit Bendera remains one of the most popular destinations, recording more than 30,000 visitors between Dec 19 and 22.
“Bukit Bendera continues to attract both local and foreign tourists throughout the school holiday period.
“Penang is not only known for its beautiful beaches and attractive tourist spots, but also for its diverse local cuisine, including nasi kandar, laksa and char kuey teow, which remain favourites among tourists,” he said.
A survey around George Town and Batu Ferringhi found increasing traffic congestion, particularly on major routes leading to tourist attractions and shopping centres, with many private vehicles bearing registration plates from other states.
Congestion was also reported at several key intersections and coastal roads during peak hours, believed to be due to the influx of tourists during the extended holiday period.
Bernama previously reported that more than 2.2 million vehicles are expected to enter Penang during the end-of-term school holidays and Christmas celebrations beginning Dec 23. The estimate is based on trends from previous festive seasons, coupled with the ongoing Penang Festival, which runs from Dec 6 to Jan 10, 2026.
— BERNAMA