malaysiang
MELAKA: The construction of a cruise terminal in Pulau Melaka, Banda Hilir is expected to play a crucial role in boosting Melaka’s economy through tourism, according to Transport Minister Anthony Loke. He emphasized that the initiative aligns with the federal government’s commitment to strengthening the maritime economy as a pillar of national development.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Loke highlighted the promising potential of cruise tourism as the government actively promotes this sector. He mentioned that Malaysia already has significant cruise ports, including Port Klang and Penang, which contribute to the nation’s economic landscape. The anticipated completion of the Melaka cruise terminal is expected to provide substantial benefits to the state’s economy and foster regional development. Loke shared these insights at the inauguration of the 1st Melaka International Maritime Economy Conference 2024 (MIMEC 2024), an event officiated by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh.
The launch event also
saw the presence of key figures such as Melaka state secretary Datuk Azhar Arshad, State Public Works, Infrastructure, Public Amenities and Transportation Committee chairman Datuk Hameed Mytheen Kunju Basheer, TAG Marine chairman Tun Mohd Khalil Yaakob, and Kuala Linggi International Port (KLIP) chief executive officer Tan Sri Dr. Noormustafa Kamal Yahya. Meanwhile, the Chief Minister urged port development licence holders in Melaka to expedite infrastructure projects to fuel economic growth.
Ab Rauf announced that Melaka has secured approval for three port licences from the Ministry of Transport, aimed at advancing the maritime sector along the Melaka Straits, specifically within the Straits of Melaka Waterfront Economic Zone (SM-WEZ). He encouraged licence holders to hasten their development activities to ensure that these approvals translate into tangible growth for Melaka’s future.
