The Penang Port Commission (PPC), as the governing authority and regulatory body of Penang Port, is steering bold initiatives to solidify Penang’s role as a premier regional maritime and cruise hub.
With a firm focus on high-impact strategies, PPC is positioning the state as a gateway that links Southeast Asia to global tourism and trade routes.
In a key milestone, PPC marked the maiden call of the luxury cruise ship Ovation of the Seas at Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) — a powerful symbol of Penang’s growing stature in the global cruise circuit.
To support the expanding cruise industry, PPC organised the Penang Cruise Tourism Town Hall, bringing together key stakeholders — including Penang Port Sdn. Bhd. (PPSB), government agencies, industry associations, cruise operators, and tourism agents. The forum served as a platform for aligning strategic priorities, enhancing operational capabilities, and charting a roadmap to elevate SPCT as the region’s top cruise destination.
Looking ahead, PPC has sealed a strategic partnership with Hwajing Travel and Tours Sdn. Bhd. from 2025 to 2027 to jointly promote SPCT as a dedicated Cruise Homeport. This collaboration will drive targeted marketing, data-driven insights, and sector-wide initiatives to boost cruise tourism and economic spillovers across Penang.
With state-of-the-art facilities, a high passenger-handling capacity of 12,000 passengers and two Oasis-class ships simultaneously, and a prime location within UNESCO-listed George Town, SPCT stands as one of the most advanced and scalable cruise terminals in Southeast Asia. Its capabilities are not only a testament to Penang’s readiness but a call to global cruise operators to anchor their regional operations here.
This growth is backed by unwavering support from the Penang State Government and the broader maritime and tourism ecosystem — a synergy that sets the foundation for Penang to lead as a world-class maritime hub.
PPC expresses deep appreciation to all partners and stakeholders for their commitment to this shared vision. With sustained collaboration and innovation, PPC is confident that Penang will not only remain on the global cruise map but emerge as a strategic leader in the regional maritime economy — driving tourism, trade, and Malaysia’s reputation on the international stage.
Press statement by Dato Yeoh Soon Hin PPC chairman