03/12/2025
2 DECEMBER 2025 (TUESDAY):
Tourism Malaysia, in collaboration with the Penang Port Commission (PPC) and key industry partners, extends a warm and vibrant welcoming to the passengers and crew of the M/V Piano Land, operated by Astro Ocean Cruise, upon its inaugural arrival and homeporting at the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT), Penang. The arrival of this vessel marks a pivotal moment in Malaysia's tourism sector, reinforcing the nationโs strategic position as a premier cruise hub in Southeast Asia. This deployment signifies renewed confidence in Malaysian ports and destination appeal.
The docking of the M/V Piano Land is recognized as a key milestone, particularly as it represents the first Chinese cruise ship to utilise Malaysia as a dedicated homeport. This strategic alliance is directly in line with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture's objectives to diversify tourist source markets and achieve robust expansion in the high-value cruise tourism sector. The homeport status is expected to generate significant economic spillover, encouraging passengers to extend their stay in Malaysia through pre- and post-cruise activities, thereby injecting greater revenue into local economies and supporting community businesses, especially within the UNESCO World Heritage City of George Town.
Tourism Malaysia is committed to providing an authentic and memorable experience for all cruise passengers. The successful docking and homeport operations of the M/V Piano Land underscore the effectiveness of public-private partnerships in catalyzing tourism development. We look forward to a successful and fruitful season with Astro Ocean Cruise and anticipate continued growth in cruise arrivals, further solidifying Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminalโs standing as a dynamic and friendly gateway to Malaysia.
Thank you to all that are involved in making this welcoming of Astro Ocean Cruise a success.
- Tourism Malaysia Northern Region