Integration of Virtual Reality technology in Penang tourism

Penang News Published 11 months ago on 30 March 2023 | Author TIN Media
PENANG:

Penang tourism bounces back swiftly since the reopening of international borders after a series of initiatives and campaigns taken on both domestic and international platforms. Penang is now buzzing with events and an overflow of local and international tourists. The constant effort and initiatives of the state have contributed greatly to a swift recovery. Yb Yeoh Soon Hin, Penang State EXCO for Tourism & Creative Economy ( PETACE ) pointed out that since the government reopened in last April, PETACE has welcomed a total of 184 flights in December 2022 compared to 286 international flights in July 2019, a total of 64.34% recovery rate. These exciting numbers are the result of the unremitting effort and initiatives where the recovery is progressing on an unyielding motion even when most of the Asia countries have only loosened up their borders in Q4 of 2022."

The Penang Tourism Masterplan 2021-2023 is a comprehensive roadmap to leverage technology to enhance the economic, social, and cultural aspects of Penang. As part of this initiative, the integration of Virtual Reality technology in tourism can provide an immersive and engaging Virtual Reality solution and experience for tourists, creating a more competitive advantage for Penang. This technology also makes it possible to "teleport" ourselves to the most remote corners of the globe without being physically there. It is also able to forge a dream and intention for audiences around the world by creating teaser views of our beautiful Penang.

Smart tourism initiatives, such as the use of VR and AR, can revolutionize the way tourists explore and experience Penang. By providing teaser views, maps, and virtual experiences of popular tourist destinations, visitors can preview the attractions and plan their trip accordingly, enhancing their overall experience.

Moreover, these technologies can also serve as a powerful and dynamic marketing tools for Penang, promoting the state's tourism industry with the easy-to-use dynamic information overlay system. The immersive and interactive experience provided by VR that is integrated with the Google platform will provide more accurate information about the local points of interest and businesses. This project will also improve the online presence with immersive street view imagery. To date, there are more than 1 billion monthly active users of Google Maps services. When initially searching for places, consumers use mapping products 44% of the time. With the introduction of VR technology, there will be a higher SEO ranking and more chances to be found by tourists.

The travel industry is in the midst of transformation where the internet and mobile have changed the way people plan and experience their trips which has a big impact on the way destinations promote themselves. More and more travellers believe in "authentic" experiences rather than the fixed itinerary of the old. Immersing into the local culture while seeing everything is the top priority now. Technology builds the bridge here. This is undoubtedly the main character in the new ways of travel. The mobile phone has become our tour guide, best restaurant locator, map and many more. It's by our side during the entire journey. According to TripAdvisor, 45% of users use their smartphone for everything having to do with their vacations.