The Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) is hosting the 8th edition of the Penang Roadshow to India, from January 13 to 20, 2025, under the theme “Discover Penang”. This annual initiative, launched in 2017, continues to emphasise PCEB’s dedication to the Indian market, a key contributor to Penang’s tourism and business events sectors.

The roadshow will travel to four major Indian cities—Mumbai (January 13), New Delhi (January 15), Kolkata (January 17), and Chennai (January 20)—engaging approximately 200 buyers and 30 media representatives in each location.

A landmark moment of this year’s roadshow will be the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between PCEB and EaseMyTrip (EMT) in New Delhi on January 15, 2025. This partnership aims to boost Penang’s visibility in the Indian market through innovative campaigns, improved travel opportunities, and collaborative efforts.

“This MOU signifies a shared vision to foster cultural exchange and economic growth between Penang and India, establishing Penang as a preferred destination for Indian travelers,” said Ashwin Gunasekeran, CEO of PCEB.

The 2025 roadshow also marks the introduction of a direct flight between Penang and Chennai by IndiGo, simplifying travel and unlocking new opportunities for both leisure and business. Chennai’s strategic location offers seamless connectivity to Penang for passengers from 32 cities across India, including major hubs like Bengaluru, Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata.

The Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) is back after a two-year pause with the Penang Roadshow India 2023 in Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai and Hyderabad. Its new campaign ‘Chalo Penang’ will offer meeting and incentive packages to the Indian travellers. With improved air connectivity and increased demand for weddings and the recent opening of Butterworth Arena, PCEB gauges a fruitful year ahead.

This service, coupled with an inclusive 30 kg baggage allowance, is expected to significantly enhance travel convenience. “This new connection strengthens our bond and will elevate the experience for buyers attending the roadshow,” added Gunasekeran.

Adding to the momentum, Malaysia has extended its visa exemption for Indian nationals until December 31, 2026. This policy allows Indian visitors to enter Malaysia visa-free for up to 30 days, further easing travel and promoting exploration of Penang’s diverse offerings.

“Penang’s charm lies in its ability to cater to every kind of traveller, and the visa-free initiative will undoubtedly boost arrivals and tourism revenues,” said YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang’s State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy.

In 2024, Malaysia welcomed over 1 million Indian visitors, marking a 71.7 per cent growth from 2023. Penang alone hosted 1,900 events, attracting 296,630 delegates and generating an estimated RM 1.27 billion in economic impact.