Malaysia To Welcome Maiden Chinese Homeport Cruise Via Hwajing-Astro Ocean Partnership
GEORGE TOWN, July 4 (Bernama) — Malaysia is set to welcome its first Chinese cruise ship to be homeported in the country with the arrival of M/V Piano Land, following a strategic partnership between Hwajing Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd and Chinese cruise line Astro Ocean Cruise.
Hwajing managing director Kenny Cheong said the vessel, operated by Astro Ocean Cruise, would commence its maiden voyage on Nov 30, 2025, and offer two itinerary options — a three-day, two-night route (Penang–Port Klang–Penang), and a four-day, three-night route covering Penang, Langkawi and Port Klang.
He said the cruise is expected to enhance accessibility for domestic and regional travellers, in line with efforts to boost Malaysia’s position as a leading cruise tourism hub in Southeast Asia.
"We are testing the Malaysian market with these initial seven sailings and based on the response from these routes, we will make further announcements by year-end," he told a press conference here today, after signing a memorandum of agreement with Astro Ocean Cruise vice-president, Jian-feng Tong, to bring the M/V Piano Land to Malaysia.
With a passenger capacity of 1,760, M/V Piano Land is set to enhance Malaysia’s cruise tourism experience through a range of amenities and services tailored to diverse travellers, including Broadway-style theatre performances, dedicated kids’ clubs, shopping arcades, wellness centres, and various recreational facilities onboard.
The vessel features 880 well-appointed cabins, alongside a broad range of culinary offerings that include extensive halal selections, as well as options for Chinese and international cuisine.
Meanwhile, Hwajing today also entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Penang Ports Commission (PPC) to promote Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) as a dedicated cruise homeport for the years 2025 to 2027.
PPC chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin said following the MoU, SPCT would be able to gain greater visibility and recognition on the global stage.
"With its modern infrastructure, international-standard amenities, and strategic location within the UNESCO World Heritage City of George Town, SPCT is uniquely positioned to attract major cruise liners and serve as a preferred homeport in Southeast Asia.
"We believe that this strategic alliance will accelerate efforts to market Penang's cruise offerings globally, catalyse tourism development, and bring long-term benefits to the local economy and community," he added.
-- BERNAMA