Penang is preparing for increased demand for qualified tour guides as the state expands its international air connectivity to new markets in Asia and Europe. The Penang Tourist Guides Association (PTGA) highlighted the need for additional guides, particularly those proficient in Korean and languages spoken in European Union countries, to accommodate the anticipated growth in visitor arrivals.
Clement Liang, president of PTGA, emphasized the significance of expanding the pool of registered and licensed guides to support the local tourism industry. He noted uncertainty about the number of unregistered guides operating in Penang, urging them to join the association to provide a clearer picture of the workforce. “We do not know how many there are locally, but they are recognisable by the absence of identification badges,” Liang said.
The association recently marked its 60th anniversary during a luncheon attended by key tourism figures including Penang tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry Penang branch director Dr Annuar Mohamed, and Penang Global Tourism director Kenneth Tan. Wong noted that the PTGA, with more than 700 registered licensed guides, has played a vital role in shaping Malaysia's tourism sector since its founding in 1966. The guides offer tours in over 10 languages, serving a diverse group of international visitors.
Wong stressed that expanding air routes alone does not guarantee tourism growth but must be complemented by enhancing the quality and professionalism of tour guides. He highlighted the recent reopening of significant heritage sites such as the Penang State Museum and Fort Cornwallis after restoration, which create new opportunities for guides to enrich visitor experiences in George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage city. “Anyone can tell a visitor what a building is. Very few can tell them why it still matters,” he said, underscoring the cultural and educational value guides bring.
Penang's tourism appeal extends beyond individual landmarks, combining its multicultural heritage, food culture, creative industries, medical tourism, nature attractions, festivals, and the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve at Penang Hill. According to Wong, tour guides are essential in connecting these elements to give visitors a deeper understanding of what makes Penang unique.
New direct flight connections are expanding rapidly, with routes recently launched to Phuket, Thailand, and Qingdao, China. The inaugural flights from Haikou and Batam to Penang are scheduled for October 11 and 18 respectively. Additionally, Penang is exploring potential services to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and several Chinese cities including Jinan, Wuhan, Lanzhou, and Beijing. Plans also include charter flights to Japan and Poland.
Liang described guides not only as facilitators of travel but as storytellers and cultural ambassadors who passionately promote the state's heritage. PTGA also holds an international presence as a full member of the World Federation of Tourist Guides Associations and the Malaysian Tourist Guides Council.
Wong highlighted the longstanding contributions of PTGA, which dates back to conducting tours for delegates at Malaysia’s first Pacific Asia Travel Association conference in 1972. In recognition of their ongoing role, PTGA organizes free guided tours annually on International Tourist Guide Day.
“Governments can build infrastructure and open air routes, but it is the guides who stand in front of visitors and help them understand the significance of this place,” Wong said, underscoring their indispensable role in shaping Penang’s tourism future.