GEORGE TOWN: Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the resumption of train services from Bangkok to Butterworth will further boost commercial activities in Penang.
Welcoming the news, Chow said it would not only increase the number of visitors but also facilitate the movement of cargo between the two countries.
"We believe this will open up more business opportunities for the state.
"This will also serve as an alternative mode of transportation, especially for those seeking a new experience," he said today.
Chow added that some people believe traveling by train offers a unique charm, allowing them to enjoy the beauty of nature.
Earlier today, state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the train service between Bangkok, Padang Besar, and Butterworth would bring more good news for Penang's tourism sector.
It was reported yesterday that Malaysia and Thailand had agreed to revive the Bangkok-Padang Besar-Butterworth direct train service, according to the State Railway of Thailand (SRT).
Chief of the Governor's Office of the SRT, Ekkarat Sriarayanphong, said the plan was agreed upon in principle during the 42nd Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB)-SRT joint conference held last week in Kota Kinabalu.
Pic by SITI AMINAH YUSOF