GEORGE TOWN: Penang has lauded the resumption of train services from Bangkok to Butterworth, bringing more good news for Penang's tourism sector.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the train service between Bangkok, Padang Besar, and Butterworth would complement the existing direct flights from Bangkok to Penang.
He said this would in turn enhance the international transport network between Penang and Thailand.
"The resumption of train services between Bangkok and Butterworth is expected to significantly boost mutual visits between the people of Thailand and Malaysia, deepening cultural exchanges and economic cooperation between the two countries.
"This new train route not only adds a convenient travel option between Thailand and Malaysia but also offers backpackers and young travelers a novel journey experience.
"Travelers can explore Indo-China and then travel by train from Bangkok to Penang, enjoying the scenic landscapes and the rhythmic sound of the train as it traverses through picturesque views," he said today.
According to data from June this year, there are now 39 direct flights per week from Bangkok to Penang, compared to 22 flights per week in the same period last year, showing a significant increase.
Direct flights from Suvarnabhumi Airport are operated by Firefly and Thai Airways, each with seven weekly flights.
From Don Mueang International Airport, AirAsia offers approximately 18 weekly flights and Thai Lion Air operates seven weekly flights.
Elaborating, Wong said the train service between Bangkok, Padang Besar, and Butterworth would greatly enhance the connectivity between Penang and Indo-China.
He said this railway line would link major cities in southern Thailand with Penang's tourism network, connecting multiple tourist destinations in Malaysia and Thailand and forming a travel corridor across the Peninsula.
"With this rail connection, Penang will serve as a gateway to Southeast Asia, further solidifying its role as a regional transportation hub.
"Additionally, this train service will benefit residents from southern Thailand who can easily travel to Penang by train and enjoy this historic and culturally rich tourist destination.
"We believe that this service will enhance Penang's accessibility by land, sea, and air, attracting more international tourists and further driving the growth of Penang's tourism industry," Wong added.
It was reported yesterday that Malaysia and Thailand had agreed to revive the Bangkok-Padang Besar-Butterworth direct train service, according to the State Railway of Thailand (SRT).
Chief of the Governor's Office of the SRT, Ekkarat Sriarayanphong, said the plan was agreed upon in principle during the 42nd Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB)-SRT Joint Conference held last week in Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Malaysia's state of Sabah.