The chairman of the Penang Port Commission (PPC), Dato’ Yeoh Soon Hin, announced that Penang Port continued to record strong performance in the maritime tourism sector for the period from January to September 2026.

 

According to Yeoh, the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) further strengthened its position as one of Malaysia’s premier maritime tourism gateways, recording 569,173 passengers between January and September 2026, compared to 374,171 passengers during the corresponding period in 2025. This represents a significant increase of 52.12%.

 

This growth was driven by a rise in international passenger arrivals, which reached 431,793 passengers, compared to 342,771 passengers in the previous year. In addition, domestic day-trip passenger numbers recorded a remarkable surge to 137,362 passengers, up from 31,400 passengers previously. The number of vessel calls at SPCT also increased substantially to 538 cruise ship calls, compared to 134 calls during the same period last year, reflecting the continued confidence of the international cruise industry in Penang as a preferred destination.

 

Yeoh stated that the significant growth in the cruise tourism sector demonstrates Penang’s growing appeal among international cruise operators and travellers from around the world. The arrival of more cruise ships not only boosts tourist arrivals but also generates positive economic spillover effects for various sectors, including hospitality, transportation, food and beverage services, and local businesses. This further reinforces SPCT’s role as a key catalyst for the development of maritime tourism in Malaysia and the northern region.

 

He also expressed hope that this positive momentum can be sustained through close collaboration between the port authorities, the state government, tourism agencies, and industry stakeholders. With its strategic location, well-developed port facilities, and unique cultural heritage, Penang possesses tremendous potential to further establish itself as a world-class cruise destination.

 

This achievement is expected to contribute to sustainable economic growth for the state while further strengthening Penang’s position as a leading gateway for tourism and trade in the region.