GEORGE TOWN: Penang is strengthening its position as one of Asia's leading cruise destinations, with passenger arrivals at Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) rising 52.12% in the first nine months of this year compared with the same period in 2025.
Penang Port Commission (PPC) chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin said cruise vessel calls recorded an even sharper increase of 301.49% from January to September, reflecting growing confidence among international cruise operators in Penang as a port of call.
He said the strong performance underscored the state's growing appeal and strengthened its position in the regional cruise industry.
He said Penang's inclusion in Seatrade Cruise Asia 2026 was a recognition of its growing reputation as a cruise destination and the important role played by SPCT in Malaysia's cruise tourism sector.
For the first time, Malaysia will host the event, which will take place in Kuala Lumpur and Penang from Nov 16 to 19.
Yeoh said the conference would bring together about 600 international delegates, including cruise line executives, port operators, tourism organisations, policymakers and other maritime industry players.
He described the event as an important opportunity to showcase Penang's cruise facilities, tourism attractions and investment potential to international industry leaders.
"Penang has a unique combination of heritage, culture, world-famous food and diverse tourism experiences, making it an attractive destination for international cruise passengers," he said.
Yeoh said the cruise industry contributed significantly to the local economy through tourism spending, business opportunities and employment across various sectors.
He added that the growth in passenger arrivals and vessel calls reflected positive momentum in the state's cruise sector and could further strengthen Penang's position in regional cruise itineraries.
As the statutory body overseeing port operations and development in Penang, PPC would continue working with port operators, tourism agencies, government bodies and industry partners to improve cruise facilities and enhance passenger experiences.
Yeoh said the commission hoped to use the event to build international partnerships, attract more cruise operators and secure future cruise business.
He added that PPC remained committed to positioning Penang as a premier cruise destination and an important gateway for cruise tourism in Malaysia and the Asia-Pacific region.
