The Penang Port Commission (PPC) today announced that “ MV PIANO LAND” operated by Astro Ocean will be home-porting in Penang, marking a major milestone for the state’s cruise and maritime ambitions.
A total of eight sailings will be homeporting departures from Penang, bringing new visitor flows and commercial opportunities to local stakeholders.
“Today’s announcement is the result of sustained collaboration between the Port, industry partners and the Ministry of Transport. Having MV PIANO LAND choose Penang as a home port is a clear vote of confidence in our facilities, our people and our vision for sustainable cruise growth.
These eight homeport departures will create direct and indirect economic benefits for tourism operators, small businesses and the wider supply chain across Penang,” said Dato’ Yeoh Soon Hin, Chairman of the Penang Port Commission.
Penang’s emergence as a regional home‑porting hub is underpinned by strong projections: Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal is expected to handle 679,809 passengers in 2025, with volumes forecast to rise 47% in 2026—clear evidence of the state’s readiness to expand home‑porting operations and to deliver measurable economic benefits for local businesses and communities.
The Penang Port Commission expresses its gratitude to the Ministry of Transport, and in particular to YB Loke Siew Fook, Minister of Transport, whose leadership has been instrumental in positioning cruise activity as a driver of economic growth for stakeholders across the state; PPC is committed to working in close partnership with the Ministry of Transport, local industry and other government partners to ensure a smooth and successful home‑porting programme.
That’s fantastic news for Penang! It’s wonderful to see the port expanding and attracting more cruise ships.