GEORGE TOWN: Penang has been named the only destination in Southeast Asia featured in National Geographic's The Best Places in the World to Travel to in 2027, earning international recognition for its heritage, culture and natural attractions.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the list, unveiled yesterday, featured 25 destinations and travel experiences recommended for travellers next year.
"Penang is proud to be among the destinations featured in this prestigious annual list, which offers travellers inspiration and compelling reasons to explore the world in the coming year," he said.
Wong said Penang's selection followed a nomination, research and reporting process involving National Geographic's travel experts and Nat Geo Traveler's international editorial teams.
The publication highlighted Penang's distinctive geographical and cultural character, shaped by the relationship between Penang Island and mainland Seberang Perai.
It described the destination as offering a mix of Unesco-protected streets in George Town, rainforest-fringed beaches, traditional kampongs and mangrove-filled rivers, alongside the mainland's modern industrial hubs.
Wong said the recognition reflected Penang's diverse attractions and its ability to offer visitors a combination of heritage, nature, culture and contemporary experiences.
"Being featured once again by National Geographic further reinforces Penang's appeal as an international tourism destination.
"It reflects the island's distinctive character and the experiences that continue to make it attractive to visitors from around the world," he said.
He noted that Penang had also received National Geographic recognition in 2025 for its food, highlighting the state's celebrated culinary heritage.
Wong said the latest inclusion could raise Penang's international profile, strengthen its appeal to overseas travellers and increase awareness of the state as a tourism destination.
He credited the recognition to the collective efforts of tourism operators, industry stakeholders and organisations involved in developing and promoting Penang.
"More importantly, this international recognition is a testament to the dedication, close collaboration and sustained efforts of Penang's tourism industry stakeholders, who have worked tirelessly to develop and promote our destination," he said.
Wong stressed that the achievement belonged to the wider tourism industry rather than any single organisation, reflecting continued collaboration to strengthen the state's tourism sector.
"This honour belongs to all our tourism industry stakeholders. Their collective commitment, collaboration and perseverance have contributed to Penang's continued development as a tourism destination," he added.
He said the state government would continue to enhance its tourism offerings, strengthen Penang's branding and expand its reach in international markets.
"We will continue to enhance Penang's tourism brand, raise its international profile and strengthen its appeal, with the aim of welcoming more international visitors to experience all that Penang has to offer," he said.
National Geographic's 2027 list features destinations around the world, including Vestland in Norway, Luxor in Egypt, Niigata in Japan, Chengdu in China, Jaipur in India, Melbourne in Australia and Malawi.
Penang's inclusion places the Malaysian destination among a diverse selection of locations recognised for their distinctive attractions and travel experiences.
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