MALAYSIA has the potential to become a preferred cruise liner destination in the region as the country looks to transforming tourism into a key driver of national economic growth.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook said the cruise industry can do more than just bring in foreign visitors, as there are numerous spillover effects.
It can create thousands of jobs, elevate local heritage and culture appreciation, and promote Malaysia to the world, as cruise passengers can see first-hand the wonders of the country, especially its multi-ethnic background.
“We want cruise tourism to directly benefit local communities, whether through cultural tours, port services, local food, handicrafts, or heritage experiences, as well as shipping supplies and repairs," he said after officiating the inaugural CruiseWorld Malaysia 2025 conference in Penang.
Loke noted that every cruise ship that docks in Malaysia generates significant economic activities for surrounding communities and small businesses.
“Malaysia should be seen as a place to begin and end voyages, provide logistical support, and foster long-term cooperation,” he said.
The Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal under the management of Penang Port Sdn Bhd currently accommodates up to two large ships docking and plans are underway to expand it and position it as a regional cruise hub.
“Penang receives between 100 and 200 cruise ships annually, sometimes two or three in a single day. We want Penang Port to enhance its terminal capacity and become a key home port in the region,” Loke said.
Loke also expressed support for Thailand’s proposal to develop Asean into a single tourism market, including the introduction of a common visa that would allow seamless travel across member countries.
“We shouldn’t compete against each other within Asean. Instead, we should collaborate to promote the region as one of the world’s top tourism destinations,” he said.
Penang exco for tourism, Wong Hon Wai said that cruise tourism remains a vital clog of Penang's drive to make a strong comeback after the nightmarish experiences of Covid-19.
“Swettenham Pier is one of the few city ports in the region, allowing passengers to disembark right into the heart of George Town. Since completing its major expansion two years ago, the pier has already delivered a positive impact,” Wong said
Wong revealed that the tourism sector has not only recovered from the pandemic but has surpassed pre-Covid levels.
In 2024, hotel guest arrivals reached 8.237 million, an impressive 28.9% increase compared to 6.389 million in 2019. - June 11, 2025.
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