GEORGE TOWN: Penang has scored a major tourism victory after being crowned the fifth-best island in the Asia-Pacific region by internationally renowned travel magazine Travel + Leisure.
In the publication's "Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2026, Best Islands" list, the Pearl of the Orient also emerged as the highest-ranked island destination in Malaysia.
Penang State Tourism and Creative Economy Executive Councillor Wong Hon Wai said the ranking is highly encouraging news and a profound source of pride for all Penangites.
"Penang's ability to stand out among many world-renowned island destinations in the Asia-Pacific is certainly no coincidence.
"The island is uniquely home to two separate Unesco-recognised attractions: the George Town World Heritage Site and the Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve," he posted on Facebook.
He said that Penang is also blessed with world-famous local cuisine, lush landscapes, scenic coastal views, elegant heritage buildings, and vibrant festivals.
He added that Penang's warm, hospitable, inclusive, and diverse urban character has further cemented its regional appeal.
"The state was not the only Malaysian destination to shine on the leaderboard. Langkawi secured the seventh spot, ensuring the country clinched two positions within the region's top ten island destinations," he said.
Wong said that the dual ranking fully reflects the unique appeal and robust potential of Malaysia's island tourism on the regional stage.
"This international recognition is not only a strong affirmation of Penang's tourism appeal, but also a great encouragement to our tourism players, hoteliers, cultural practitioners, food and beverage operators, transport providers, and all tourism frontliners who have worked tirelessly and contributed quietly over the years," he said.
Topping the list for best islands is Koh Samui, Thailand, followed by Vietnam's Phu Quoc in second place and Indonesia's perennially popular Bali in third.
The Philippines makes its first entry with Palawan securing the fourth spot, just ahead of Malaysia's highest-ranked destination, Penang, in fifth.
The bottom half of the top ten are Thailand's Phuket in sixth, Malaysia's Langkawi in seventh, and the Philippines' Boracay in eighth, while Indonesia's Sumba and Thailand's Koh Chang capture the ninth and tenth positions respectively. - NST
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