LANGKAWI’S sailing industry holds the potential to propel the island into the ranks of the world’s top tourism destinations and establish it as a leading sailing hub in Southeast Asia, according to Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) chief executive officer Datuk Haslina Abdul Hamid.
Speaking at the Malaysia Yachting Conference, held in conjunction with the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025 (LIMA’25), Haslina said the sailing sector could generate broad economic benefits through activities such as boat manufacturing, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), and marine services.
“Langkawi is an island, so as an island, it definitely has a marina. So, with this facility, the sailing industry will have a positive impact on the local economy,” Bernama cited her saying today.
“If the sailing sector can flourish, a lot of economic spillovers can be enjoyed by the local community,” she added.
Currently, Langkawi hosts three marinas: Langkawi Yacht Club, Telaga Harbour Marina and Rebak Marina Langkawi. However, Haslina noted that these facilities are limited in capacity and unable to accommodate larger vessels.
“We receive many requests from superyachts that want to enter the facility, but we can't because only yachts measuring up to 80 metres in length are allowed to dock,” she said.
“There is a need to expand the marina if we want to further stimulate the economy from the yacht industry… we need to see what needs to be done at the existing marinas. If we want to add a new marina, it may be a little complicated.”
Haslina also expressed hope that the Malaysia International Boat Show 2025 (MYBOS’25) and the Malaysia Sailing Conference could be held annually to reinforce Langkawi’s image as a regional centre for sailing and maritime tourism. - May 23, 2025
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