If there’s one destination in Southeast Asia that knows how to blend heritage charm with modern luxury and business savvy, it’s Penang. And if the recent Asian Tourism & Hospitality Awards 2025-26 are anything to go by, the “Pearl of the Orient” is officially on fire.
Penang has brought home an impressive haul of 12 awards from the prestigious ceremony, which took place on May 14, 2026, at the Berjaya Times Square Hotel in Kuala Lumpur. The wins span across a diverse range of categories, from luxury hotels and convention centers to heritage tourism and individual leadership.
The Celebration
Yesterday, a press conference was held to celebrate the winners, chaired by YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang’s State EXCO for Tourism and Creative Economy, and Mr. Ashwin Gunasekeran, CEO of the Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB).
Speaking about the state’s achievements, YB Wong Hon Wai expressed immense pride:
“These awards are a strong testament to the quality, creativity, and resilience of Penang’s tourism and hospitality industry. Each winner represents the hard work and commitment of our industry players in delivering meaningful experiences, excellent service, and world-class offerings. Penang’s success reinforces our position as one of the region’s most vibrant destinations for tourism and business events.”
He also noted that this success aligns with the state government’s vision to grow Penang’s tourism and creative economy through collaboration and enhanced international visibility.
Mr. Ashwin Gunasekeran echoed these sentiments, highlighting the state’s robust business events sector:
“Penang’s 12 wins are not only a proud moment for the winners but also for the entire state. These recognitions show that Penang continues to stand out through its strong hospitality products, world-class venues, heritage offerings, and committed industry leadership.”
Meet the Award-Winners
The wins showcase Penang’s diversity, from its natural attractions to its most luxurious stays. Here’s the full list of winners:
- Individual Leadership:
- YB Wong Hon Wai – Outstanding State Tourism Leader – Penang 2025
- Mr. Ashwin Gunasekeran – International Business Events Leadership Award 2025 (Celebrating 10 Years of Transformational Impact)
- Attractions & Heritage:
- Entopia – Leading Tourist Attraction of the Year 2025 – Malaysia
- Goche Corporation – Leading Heritage Tourism Product of the Year 2025 – Malaysia
- Luxury & Hotels:
- G Hotel Gurney – Leading Luxury Hotel of the Year 2025 – Malaysia
- G Hotel Gurney – Leading MICE Venue of the Year 2025 – Hotel Category
- Citadines Connect Bertam Georgetown Penang – Leading New Urban Lifestyle Hotel of the Year 2025 – Malaysia
- Holiday Inn Suites Penang Prai – Leading Business Events Destination Hotel 2025 – Malaysia
- Holiday Inn Suites Penang Prai – Leading New Hotel of the Year 2025 – Malaysia
- Iconic Marjorie Hotel, Penang – Leading Conference Hotel of the Year 2025 – Northern Region, Malaysia
- Convention Centres:
- PICCA Convention Centre Penang – Leading Convention Centre of the Year 2025
- Holiday Inn Suites Penang Prai – Leading Hotel General Manager of the Year 2025 (Northern Region, Malaysia)
What This Means for Penang
This recognition is more than just trophies on a shelf. It reflects the state’s continued excellence as a leading destination for tourism, business events, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions) activities. With its rich UNESCO heritage, vibrant multicultural society, and state-of-the-art facilities, Penang is clearly solidifying its position as a top contender in the Asian region.
About the PCEB
The Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) is the state bureau dedicated to developing Penang’s business events industry. By working with professional service providers, world-class hotels, and unique venues, the PCEB aims to position Penang as the preferred destination for business events in the region.
For more details on the awards, visit: www.athawards.com
