IslamiCruise Launches Aroya Package, Seals Deal With 26 Agents To Promote Halal Cruises

KUALA LUMPUR, July 29 (Bernama) -- IslamiCruise International Sdn Bhd (ICI) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with 26 appointed Aroya Cruise Link Agents (ACLA), in conjunction with the official launch of the three-day, two-night AROYA Cruise Package from Port Klang to Langkawi.

Under the MoU, the ACLA agents will serve as official sales representatives for AROYA Cruises, promoting and selling packages aligned with the brand’s fully halal concept, offering alcohol-free, gambling-free cruises designed to provide a worry-free experience from a syariah-compliant perspective.

Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, who officiated the ceremony, said such partnerships strengthen Malaysia’s appeal as a preferred destination for global travellers.

"Today’s event marks another important milestone in our nation’s ongoing journey to strengthen and diversify the tourism industry.

"The launch of the AROYA Cruise is not only an expansion of our tourism product offerings, but also a reflection of Malaysia’s commitment to delivering new and unique experiences to both domestic and international travellers, as we move towards Visit Malaysia Year 2026," he said in his speech during the signing ceremony.

Also present at the event were ICI founder and CEO Suhaimi Abd Ghafer, ICI project director Ab Rahman Mohd Ali, and head of the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 Secretariat, Amirul Rizal Abd Rahim.

Khairul Firdaus said the initiative supports Malaysia’s position as a welcoming destination for Muslim travellers, while also reflecting the nation’s commitment to inclusivity and warm hospitality for all.

He added that programmes like MOTAC’s Muslim Friendly Tourism and Hospitality initiative are designed to meet faith-based needs, such as halal food, prayer facilities, and Muslim-friendly accommodation, while enhancing the overall travel experience for visitors of all backgrounds.

"By expanding our portfolio through innovative products such as today’s cruise package, we further enrich Malaysia’s tourism landscape.

"These efforts support our national strategies under Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and reflect the country’s commitment to hospitality, diversity, and excellence in service.

"It is by continuously offering a broad range of experiences, encompassing culture, nature, and modern attractions, that Malaysia remains competitive in today’s global tourism arena," he said.

The Muslim-friendly AROYA Cruise will set sail from Port Klang on Jan 30, 2026, and return on Feb 1, 2026, offering travellers a unique opportunity to experience the luxury and atmosphere of Islamic cruising in a shorter, more accessible format.

The MoU also marks the introduction of ACLA as part of ICI’s efforts to make luxury cruising more affordable, with packages starting from as low as RM597.

This initiative aligns with MOTAC’s Visit Malaysia Year 2026 campaign and is expected to draw both domestic and foreign tourists to discover Malaysia through cruise travel.

As part of the event, four media personnel won a lucky draw for the full three-day, two-night AROYA Cruise Package.

-- BERNAMA