PCEB Engages Cambodia Airways to Support Launch of Phnom Penh–Penang Direct Flight. The Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB), representing the State of Penang, made a strategic visit to Cambodia Airways headquarters in Phnom Penh on 17 June 2025. The visit, led by PCEB’s Chief Executive Officer Mr. Ashwin Gunasekeran, alongside Head of Sales & Marketing Ms. Siti Sarah Ismail and Marketing & Communications Manager Mr. Terry Neoh, was a key engagement in anticipation of Cambodia Airways’ inaugural direct flight connecting Phnom Penh and Penang. This collaboration marks a significant step toward strengthening regional air connectivity and enhancing business and tourism ties between Cambodia and northern Malaysia.
During the meeting, the PCEB delegation met with senior representatives from Cambodia Airways, including Executive Deputy General Manager Mr. Guowei Bai, Deputy Director of the Marketing Committee Mr. Daniel Li, and Assistant to the CEO SOB Ms. Sok Ravy. The dialogue centered on joint strategies to ensure the successful launch and long-term sustainability of the new route. Topics discussed included potential marketing partnerships, joint promotional efforts, and broader initiatives to raise awareness of the new connection among key audiences in both regions.
Set to commence operations on 26 June 2025, the Phnom Penh–Penang direct flight will operate twice weekly, on Thursdays and Sundays. The route offers immense potential for business and corporate travellers by providing a direct and efficient link between Cambodia’s capital and Penang, a growing hub for business events, trade, and investment in Southeast Asia. In addition to the business benefits, the new service is expected to deepen bilateral engagement across tourism, MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions), trade, and the creative industries.
The partnership is also grounded in the shared cultural heritage of both destinations. With Penang’s George Town and Cambodia’s historical centers in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap all recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the new route paves the way for enriched cultural tourism and heritage exchange. This alignment is expected to bolster tourism flows and encourage greater exploration of Southeast Asia’s rich cultural diversity.
Strategically, the route serves as a valuable transit option for business travelers, linking Cambodia not only to Penang but also to Penang’s wider network of regional and international connections. As part of PCEB’s commitment to supporting the success of this new service, the bureau will explore partnerships with Cambodia Airways and other stakeholders to boost awareness and uptake among key markets.
This initiative is in line with the Penang State Government’s broader vision to strengthen international connectivity, foster economic collaboration, and accelerate the development of Penang’s business events and tourism sectors. With its modern infrastructure, strategic location, and vibrant economy, Penang is well-positioned to serve as a dynamic gateway for regional growth and ASEAN integration, with the Phnom Penh–Penang route playing a vital role in this forward-looking agenda.