Tuesday, August 20, 2024 Melaka, one of Malaysia’s most historic and culturally rich states, is poised to experience a significant boost in international tourism, with an estimated 200,000 tourists expected to arrive through the new Singapore-Melaka cruise route. This influx of visitors will be facilitated by 52 voyages of the luxurious Genting Dream Cruise, operated by Resort World Cruises, starting in November 2024. The new cruise route introduces the ‘2 Night Cruises’ package, which positions Melaka as a strategic stopover destination, offering international travelers a chance to explore the state’s unique blend of heritage, culture, and modern attractions.
The Chief Minister of Melaka, Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, expressed his excitement about the potential impact of this initiative during a press conference held at his office in Seri Negeri on August 20, 2024. “The presence of Genting Dream Cruises in Melaka with this 2 Night Cruises package is an excellent opportunity to promote Melaka as an international tourist destination. This initiative will not only boost the local economy but also showcase Melaka’s rich cultural heritage to a broader audience,” stated Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh.
He further elaborated that during the 12 hours of docking in Melaka, tourists would have ample time to immerse themselves in the state’s vibrant offerings. From exploring historical sites and engaging with the local culture to indulging in Melaka’s renowned culinary delights and shopping, visitors will have the opportunity to experience the full spectrum of what the state has to offer. The press conference was also attended by Datuk Abdul Razak Abdul Rahman, Tourism, Heritage, Arts and Culture Exco, and Michael Goh, President of RW Cruises Pte Ltd.
They emphasized that this new cruise route is a testament to the growing confidence in Melaka as a preferred tourist destination, not just in Malaysia but across Southeast Asia. Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh highlighted that Melaka’s tourism sector has shown significant growth, with 8,714,386 tourists recorded from January to July 2024, marking an 84.55 percent increase compared to the same period in 2023.
This sharp rise in tourist numbers underscores the variety of tourism products offered in Melaka, from its UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites to its contemporary attractions, making it an attractive destination for international travelers. The introduction of the Singapore-Melaka cruise route is expected to further enhance these numbers, providing a steady stream of tourists throughout the year. The Genting Dream Cruise, known for its luxury accommodations and top-notch amenities, will serve as an ideal gateway for visitors looking to explore Melaka’s treasures.
Michael Goh, President of RW Cruises Pte Ltd, shared his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled to include Melaka in our itinerary. This new stopover will give our passengers a unique opportunity to explore a city that is both historically significant and rich in culture. We believe that Melaka will quickly become one of the favorite destinations on our route.
” The economic impact of this new cruise route is expected to be substantial, benefiting various sectors within Melaka, including hospitality, retail, and local tourism services. Local businesses are preparing to cater to the influx of tourists, offering a range of experiences that highlight Melaka’s heritage while also providing modern conveniences. As part of the broader strategy to promote Melaka as an international tourism hub, the state government, in collaboration with local and international stakeholders, is investing in infrastructure and marketing initiatives to ensure a seamless and memorable experience for visitors.
The partnership with Genting Dream Cruises is seen as a significant step in this direction, bringing global attention to Melaka’s unique offerings. The ‘2 Night Cruises’ package, combined with the strategic timing of the docking schedule, is designed to maximize tourist engagement with the local attractions, ensuring that visitors leave with a lasting impression of Melaka. The initiative is poised to elevate Melaka’s status on the global tourism map, attracting even more visitors in the years to come.
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