Malaysian travel firm Hwajing Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd formally entered a strategic partnership with China’s Astro Ocean Cruise to bring the M/V Piano Land to Malaysia.
The signing ceremony held at the Penang Port Commission was witnessed by Tourism Malaysia deputy chairman Yeoh Soon Hin and signed by Hwajing Travel & Tours managing director Kenny Cheong and Astro Ocean Cruise president Jian-feng Tong.
This partnership is seen as a step towards making Malaysia a leading country in terms of the regional cruise industry.
Aligned with a vision
Yeoh said of the partnership: “In line with transport minister Anthony Loke’s vision to position Malaysia as a premier homeport destination, we are committed to driving the nation’s cruise tourism agenda forward. By encouraging travellers to begin and conclude their cruise itineraries in Malaysia, we aim to boost tourist arrivals, create local employment opportunities, and showcase Malaysia’s vibrant culture, heritage, and cuisine on the global stage. With the right strategy, cruise tourism holds tremendous potential to deliver sustained economic benefits and uplift communities across the country.”
Cheong added: “Welcoming M/V Piano Land to Malaysia reinforces our commitment to making cruise holidays more accessible and enriching for both Malaysian and Southeast Asian travellers. This milestone comes at a special time for us, as Hwajing celebrates its 36th anniversary this year. We look forward to playing a key role in developing Malaysia into a thriving homeport hub for international cruises.”
This agreement is Hwajing’s second major international cruise collaboration, following last year’s successful homeporting of an Italian cruise ship.
First in Malaysia
The M/V Piano Land is set to sail on its maiden voyage on 30th November of this year, making it the first Chinese cruise ship to be homeported in Malaysia.
The upcoming itineraries will include a 3-day, 2-night sailing (Penang – Port Klang – Penang) and a 4-day, 3-night voyage covering Penang, Langkawi, and Port Klang.
Passengers will be able to embark from either Penang or Port Klang, offering greater convenience and accessibility for Malaysian travellers, as well as those from neighbouring countries.
The introduction of M/V Piano Land homeport operation is expected to stimulate tourism, boost local economies, and offer Malaysians and neighbouring markets more seamless access to cruise holidays.
