01/08/2025

FRIDAY | AUG 1, 2025

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Penang on strong path to achieve progress

Borneo flora festival sees overwhelming turnout LABUAN: The Borneo Flora Festival (BFF) 2025 has exceeded all expectations, drawing 104,543 visitors, more than double its original target of 50,000. The five-day event drew crowds not only from Labuan and across Malaysia, but also plant enthusiasts and tourists from Brunei, Kalimantan (Indonesia) and even as far as Timor Leste. Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa said the overwhelming turnout highlights Labuan’s growing reputation as a regional destination for eco-tourism and cultural events. “The response was beyond our expectations. This shows how the Borneo Flora Festival has grown into a regional event of international interest,” she said during the closing ceremony here on Wednesday. She added that due to the festival’s tremendous success, the federal government is considering the possibility of organising it again next year on an even greater scale with more participants. Celebrating the vibrant biodiversity of the tropics, the festival showcased a stunning array of flora, including rare orchid species, some of the world’s largest pitcher plants and exotic blooms native to Borneo’s rainforests. More than 100 exhibitors and florists participated in the event, ranging from local growers and government agencies to environmental NGOs, community groups and hoteliers. The festival also offered a range of floral-themed activities, hands-on workshops and competitions that appealed to visitors of all ages, all aligned with its central theme of conservation, culture and community. Zaliha said the surge in visitor numbers brought a welcome boost to local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, homestays and transport operators. “Many homeowners opened their doors as temporary homestays to meet the overwhelming demand for accommodation.” Zaliha said the festival also benefited souvenir shops, florists, retail outlets and small traders who saw increased sales. Adding a touch of royal prestige to the event was the presence of Her Majesty the Queen of Malaysia Raja Zarith Sofia, who graced the festival with a visit. – Bernama

and cultural diversity continues to attract global investors and tourists, placing the state prominently on the Southeast Asian investment map. “Penang has a heritage that

foreign investment. In the first quarter of 2025, Penang

GEORGE TOWN: Penang is on the right track to becoming one of Malaysia’s most advanced states, driven by its strengths in industry, investment and tourism, said Governor Tun Ramli Ngah Talib ( pic) . In an exclusive interview with Bernama, Ramli said Penang’s strategic blend of modern infrastructure, rich historical heritage o Rich historical heritage, modern infrastructure continue to draw steady stream of global investors and tourists: Governor

recorded RM6.7 billion in approved investments, 90% of which were foreign direct investments, accounting for 22% of Malaysia’s total. Ramli said the state’s economy is expected to remain robust, driven by high-tech industries such as electronics, semiconductors and artificial intelligence, supported by ongoing infrastructure upgrades by the state government. Among the key federal-led mega projects seen as future catalysts are the Penang Light

cannot be replicated, a legacy shaped by locals and colonial influences. “It’s not just physical, but also traditional, which includes customs, food and way of life, all in one rich mix,” he said. Ramli added that Penang’s

historical role as a trading port has been bolstered by modern infrastructure such as the Penang International Airport and an efficient road network, which continue to attract steady inflows of

Rail Transit project and the Juru–Sungai Dua Elevated Expressway, which are expected to improve connectivity significantly, ease tourist access and strengthen investment support. On tourism, Ramli highlighted that Penang’s competitive edge lies not only in its scenic charm but in its heritage-based tourism, ranging from colonial architecture to deep-rooted customs and diverse culinary traditions reflecting the state’s multiracial identity. “Heritage here isn’t just about buildings, it’s a way of life. “Like the Taj Mahal in India, which has drawn crowds for centuries, Penang’s heritage continues to captivate people from all over. The interest keeps growing,” he said. The Penang International Airport recorded nearly two million passenger movements in the first quarter of 2025, a 69.55% increase from the same period last year. International passenger numbers rose by over 80%, while domestic passengers increased by more than 57%. Ramli also praised the state’s racial harmony and the strong command of the Malay language among non-Malay communities, calling it a solid foundation for Penang’s progress. “Penang is well poised for the future. What matters now is that we preserve our heritage while continuing to strengthen development,” he added.

Ramli said Penang’s competitive edge lies in its scenic charm and heritage-based tourism ranging from colonial architecture to diverse culinary traditions. – SYED AZAHAR SYED OSMAN/THESUN