Tourism Malaysia extends its charter flight grant to cover cruise operators, aiming for one million cruise passengers in Penang by 2026.
GEORGE TOWN: Tourism Malaysia will expand its Charter Flight Matching Grant (GSPC) to include the cruise sector starting in 2026.
Deputy chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin said the move aims to boost international tourist arrivals via sea routes, particularly to Penang.
“Starting in 2026, we will expand the scope of the grant to allow cruise operators, agents, or tour operators bringing cruise ships to Malaysia to apply,” he said at the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal.
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He confirmed the total grant allocation remains RM50 million, supporting both aviation and cruise sectors.
The expansion aligns with efforts to establish Penang Port as a leading regional cruise hub.
Tourism Malaysia is targeting nearly one million cruise passengers to arrive via Penang in 2026.
Yeoh also expects 170 international cruise ship arrivals in Penang next year, up from 120 projected for 2025.
Penang recorded approximately 1.5 million cruise passengers in 2024, highlighting its strong maritime tourism potential.
On promotions, Yeoh said the agency will ramp up digital campaigns and highlight Penang’s gastronomic offerings.
“Penang is famous for its unique cuisine,” he added, encouraging creative presentations of traditional dishes.
A European tourist, Brant Morris, said he planned his trip specifically to experience Penang’s famous street food.
“I wanted to try it myself, especially local favourites like char kway teow and assam laksa,” he said. – Bernama
