Penang and Chenna have made a pledge to enhance cross-border tourism, strengthen cultural exchange and unlock economic benefits through increased travel and connectivity between the two destinations. This commitment was enforced during a courtesy call between Tamil Nadu’s Tourism Ministry and representatives from the Penang Convention and Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) in Chennai.
The Tamil Nadu Tourism Minister R. Rajendran highlighted the deep historical ties between India and Malaysia, particularly between Tamil Nadu and Penang, back hundreds of years ago,
“Many people from Tamil Nadu have worked in Malaysia, including Penang and upon returning to India, they were even referred as Penang returnees”.
On behalf of M.K Stalin, the Chief Minister Of Tamil Nadu, Rajendran extended an invitation to Malaysians, to visit Tamil Nadu and Chennai to further boost the tourism sector.
A Shared History and Culture Connection
Dr. Chandra Mohan, Principal Secretary of Tourism, Culture and Religious Endowments and Chairman of the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation, reflected on the ties between both of these popular destinations. He recalled the story of Chinna Maruthu’s son, M. Doraisamy, who was deported to Penang after his father was defeated by the British. Years later, he encountered the same British commander who had been resigned to Penang, a moment recorded in British historical documents.
The Tamil Nadu government praised the newly launched flight that directs a route between Chennai and Penang by IndiGo Airlines on 21st December 2024, stating the initiative is expected to boost tourism and enhance the deep rooted ties.
Pengkalan Kota assemblyman and PCEB director Wong Yuee Harng emphasized the strong culture and history bond,
“From Penang’s little India to the grand temples and colonial-era structures, the architectural legacy of Tamil Nadu is evident in Penang. Our vibrant festival such as Deepavali and Thaipusam along with South Indian culinary traditions, further reflects this connection”.
Sources: Bernama
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