KUALA LUMPUR: Batik Air has launched direct flights between Batam, Indonesia, and Penang, aimed at improving connectivity and supporting tourism, business and medical travel between the two destinations.

In a statement, the airline said its inaugural flight from Batam's Hang Nadim International Airport arrived at Penang International Airport on Oct 18.

The new service provides travellers from Batam and the surrounding Riau Islands with direct access to Penang without the need for transit stops.

Batik Air said the route was also expected to facilitate medical travel from Indonesia to Penang, which has an established healthcare sector catering to international patients.

The airline is collaborating with several healthcare providers, including Sunway Medical Centre Penang, Island Hospital and KPJ Penang Specialist Hospital, to support medical travel.

Batik Air chief executive officer Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy said the route was part of the airline's efforts to expand its regional network and improve travel options between Indonesia and northern Malaysia.

"The Batam-Penang route strengthens ties between Indonesia and Northern Malaysia, while supporting Penang's ambitions as a leading destination for tourism and medical care," he said.

“We see air connectivity as a key enabler of long-term growth and remain committed to building a future-ready network that delivers greater value to our passengers and the communities we serve.”

Meanwhile, Tourism Malaysia director-general Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim said the direct flights were expected to encourage visitor arrivals from Batam and create opportunities for tourism operators in both countries.

“With shorter travel times and seamless connectivity, Malaysia is primed to become the top getaway for Batam travellers looking for rich culture, natural beauty, world-class dining, modern shopping, family-friendly fun, and premium healthcare services during Visit Malaysia 2026–2027.”

Penang tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the state had conducted a tourism roadshow in Batam ahead of the route's launch to engage local travel agents and industry players.

He said the state would continue working with Batik Air and tourism operators on travel packages and joint promotions to attract visitors from the Riau Islands.

The new route forms part of Batik Air's regional network expansion, with a focus on improving connectivity between Malaysia and Indonesia.