Travel to Penang
Learn more about travel options, nearby hotels, and venue details.
Welcome to Penang
This vibrant island state in Malaysia is renowned for its rich culture, stunning beaches, and delicious food. Whether you're seeking a relaxing getaway, an adventurous escape, or a cultural immersion, Penang has something to offer everyone!
In addition to our accessible facilities and transportation, Penang also offers a wide range of accessible attractions and activities for delegates to enjoy. You can explore the island's rich history and culture at its many accessible museums and temples, or simply relax and unwind on one of our many beautiful beaches.
And of course, no trip to Penang would be complete without sampling the local cuisine! Penang is a melting pot of cultures, and its food reflects this. From Penang asam laksa to char kway teow, there's a dish to please every palate.
We look forward to welcoming you to our island paradise!
Be a green traveler
KTMB
Train from KL Sentral to Butterworth followed by a car journey to Setia SPICE Convention Centre.
Vist website
Travel by car
A single person per car driving from KL Sentral to Setia SPICE Convention Centre. We recommend carpooling.
Google MapsConference Venue
Setia SPICE Convention Centre
Setia SPICE Convention Centre is a world-class event venue located in the vibrant city of Penang, Malaysia. The venue is Eco Green GBI certified as the world 1st hybrid solar-powered convention centre. On a bright day, SPICE Convention Centre draws 0 (zero) energy from the national grid. Some of its outstanding eco-friendly features include expansive green spaces, green technology, energy efficient systems, redevelopment of an existing building and social inclusive design.
Setia SPICE Convention Centre
Stay at Penang
Amari SPICE Penang
Amari SPICE Penang is the city’s leading hotel offering vibrant experiences to guests whether on a business or leisure trip, conveniently connected to the SPICE Convention Centre.
Situated at the centre of it all in the heart of Penang’s Central Business District in Bayan Lepas and just a 5km drive away from Penang International Airport.
Your private abode awaits at the hotel that offers 453 contemporary designed guest rooms and suites with market-inspired Amaya Food Gallery, D’Observatory Sky Bar, Cascade, Executive Lounge, and recreational facilities such as Breeze Spa, FIT Centre, outdoor saltwater swimming pool with Aqua Bar.
Olive Tree Hotel
Olive Tree Hotel is an eco-friendly business hotel, strategically located in the Convention and Free Trade Zone of Penang Island. The hotel offers 2 F&B outlets, fitness facilities (gym and swimming pool) & functional meeting space & comfortable accommodation for one’s green stay.
Located right opposite the SPICE Convention Centre with less than 5 minutes walking distance and 10 minutes’ drive away from Penang International Airport, 25 minutes Penang 1st & 2nd Bridge. It is a conducive meeting point for all convention-goers.
Travel Information
Penang enjoys a tropical rainforest climate, with temperatures ranging from approximately 23 °C in the early morning to 32 °C during the day. While the monsoon season spans from October to March, travelers should still anticipate occasional heavy rain in the remaining months. Overall, the weather tends to be warm and humid year-round.
Penang is a beautiful city to explore and walk about. Do bring an umbrella as it can rain during the day. Please wear appropriate clothes and do not forget to bring suitable attires for the overall programme and social events.
The local currency is the Malaysian Ringgit (RM). You can exchange traveler’s cheques and foreign currencies at banks and some hotels. Currency exchange kiosks are also widely available in shopping malls and at the airport. ATMs are plentiful throughout Penang. Some hotels may charge a small fee for currency exchange.
Ensure your passport (or equivalent internationally-recognized travel document) is valid for at least six (6) months beyond your planned stay in Malaysia.
Penang operates on Malaysia Standard Time (GMT +8), with no daylight saving time.
Visa policy depends on your nationality and your last port of departure before entering Malaysia. For detailed requirements, please refer to the official portal of the Immigration Department of Malaysia or contact your nearest Malaysian diplomatic mission. If you need a supporting invitation letter for visa purposes, you may request one from the conference secretariat
The electrical supply is 220–240 V AC at 50 Hz. Standard 3-pin square plugs are used throughout.
Travel and medical insurance are not included in your conference registration fees. It is strongly recommended that you purchase your own policy, covering:
- Cancellation of conference participation or the event itself
- Trip cancellation or interruption
- Medical expenses abroad
- Loss or damage to personal property
- Additional expenses and repatriation in case of emergency
Neither the conference secretariat nor organizers are responsible for any uninsured losses.
All attendees must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) within three (3) days before arriving in Malaysia. You can access the MDAC portal online. https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main
Getting Around Penang
Taxis
Taxis are easily available around the island; it is a common means of getting around by visitors. Be sure to agree on a price before boarding the taxi. Start by asking how much it is to get to your destination; you can negotiate on the prices quoted if you feel that they are too high.
E-Hailing Services
Apps such as Grab is available in Penang. Simply download the app to start booking your trips. Payment is either by cash or credit/debit card.
Buses
The main public bus service is by Rapid Penang and it covers an extensive area both on the island and mainland. It also operates a Free CAT (Central Area Transit) bus service within George Town. KOMTAR Terminal is the central transfer terminal for buses that cover the whole of Penang Island.
Simply ask around or look out for signboards to find out which bus route serves you best. Upon boarding the Rapid Penang bus, inform the driver of your destination, pay the amount required and receive a ticket for your trip. Remember to prepare exact change as no change will be given back as all buses do not carry change for safety reasons.
*Fares are based on distance travelled.