Fresh from its recognition as one of Asia’s top 10 street food cities by Time Out, Penang has garnered another prestigious international accolade. Smart Travel Asia, an online publication specializing in Asian travel since 2003, has ranked Penang seventh among the top 10 holiday destinations in Asia for 2025.
Joining Penang on the list are Kuala Lumpur, ranked eighth, and Sabah, placed tenth. Bangkok, Thailand, claimed the top spot, followed by Tokyo, Japan, and Bali, Indonesia, which tied for second, with Chiang Mai, Thailand, securing third place.
“Congratulations to Penang for yet another recognition,” said Wong Hon Wai, Penang’s State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman, who is currently attending the World Expo 2025 in Osaka.
In addition to Penang’s ranking, the Eastern & Oriental Hotel earned a place among Asia’s top 10 wedding hotels, while Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa was listed among the top 10 family hotels in Asia, further elevating the state’s tourism profile.
According to Smart Travel Asia, this year’s “Best in Travel” poll, conducted from June to late August, reflected growing interest in Asian destinations from long-haul markets such as the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom, as well as regional countries including Singapore, India, China, Malaysia, and Thailand. The publication noted a strong demand for brand clarity among voters, based on the queries received.
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