Penang is South-east Asia’s only pick on Nat Geo’s 2027 must-visit list

George Town, October 22 — Penang has been acknowledged internationally by being included in National Geographic’s "The Best Places in the World to Travel to in 2027", marking it as the sole state in Malaysia and South-east Asia featured on the list. State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai stated the list, officially revealed yesterday, highlights 25 destinations and travel experiences globally recommended for visitors to explore next year.

He expressed pride in Penang's inclusion, noting the destination was chosen through a rigorous nominating, researching, and reporting process by National Geographic's travel experts and Nat Geo Traveler’s editorial teams. Wong elaborated that National Geographic emphasized Penang's unique character, influenced by the interplay between Penang Island and mainland Seberang Perai, incorporating George Town’s Unesco-protected historic streets, rainforest-lined beaches, traditional villages, and meandering, mangrove-studded rivers.

Previous recognition came with Penang's mention in National Geographic’s 2025 list of the best islands in South-east Asia for food, owing to its renowned culinary legacy. The 2027 list also includes Vestland in Norway, Luxor in Egypt, Niigata in Japan, Chengdu in China, Jaipur in India, Melbourne in Australia, and the Readers’ Choice destination, Catalina Island, California.