GEORGE TOWN: Other than six passengers found to be Covid-19 positive, about 5,400 people have safely travelled via the Penang-Singapore Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) by air from March 16 to 28.

       Revealing these figures, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the infected six were ordered to undergo home quarantine.

       The number comprised 2,600 arrivals and 2,800 departures on a total of 64 flights.

       Chow said in a press conference on Tuesday (March 29) that come April 1, the Penang-Singapore VTL would no longer be relevant as Malaysia’s international borders would be reopened.

       “We do not expect an immediate surge of international tourists to Penang once Malaysia reopens its international borders on April 1.

       “We hope that the increase in foreign tourist arrivals will be gradual and that the state can attract more visitors in a few weeks,” he said.

       Chow said Penang has enjoyed good support from its domestic tourists.

       “Beach hotels have recorded high occupancy rates during this period before the reopening of the country’s international borders.

       “We are happy and thankful that the domestic tourists are visiting Penang and providing impetus to the state’s tourism sector.

       “Even Najib (former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak) stayed two nights in our (Penang) hotel. That is also revenue,” he said.