Melaka, a state in Malaysia renowned for its rich history and vibrant culture, is poised for a significant surge in international tourism. The launch of a new Singapore-Melaka cruise route, featuring 52 voyages of the luxurious Genting Dream Cruise operated by Resort World Cruises, is expected to attract 200,000 tourists starting in November 2024. This new route introduces the ‘2 Night Cruises’ package, strategically positioning Melaka as a captivating stopover destination for international travelers.
The initiative, announced by Melaka’s Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, is anticipated to significantly boost the local economy and elevate Melaka’s profile as a global tourist destination. “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,” said Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh during a press conference. “This initiative will not only boost the local economy but also showcase Melaka’s rich cultural heritage to a broader audience.”
The ‘2 Night Cruises’ package will allow tourists to immerse themselves in Melaka’s offerings during the 12 hours of docking. They can explore historical sites, engage with local culture, indulge in Melaka’s renowned cuisine, and enjoy shopping opportunities.
Datuk Abdul Razak Abdul Rahman, Tourism, Heritage, Arts and Culture Exco, and Michael Goh, President of RW Cruises Pte Ltd, emphasized that this new route reflects the growing confidence in Melaka’s attractiveness as a tourist destination, not just in Malaysia but across Southeast Asia.
Melaka’s tourism sector has already witnessed 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 surge in tourist numbers highlights the appeal of Melaka’s diverse tourism offerings, including UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites and contemporary attractions. The introduction of the Singapore-Melaka cruise route is expected to further enhance these numbers, providing a consistent stream of tourists throughout the year.
The Genting Dream Cruise, known for its luxurious accommodations and top-notch amenities, will serve as an ideal gateway for visitors eager to explore Melaka’s treasures. “We are thrilled to include Melaka in our itinerary,” said Michael Goh, President of RW Cruises Pte Ltd. “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 new cruise route is anticipated to have a substantial economic impact on Melaka, benefiting various sectors including hospitality, retail, and local tourism services. Local businesses are preparing to cater to the influx of tourists, offering experiences that showcase Melaka’s heritage while also providing modern conveniences.
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 viewed as a crucial step in this direction, bringing global attention to Melaka’s unique offerings. The ‘2 Night Cruises’ package, combined with the strategically timed docking schedule, aims to maximize tourist engagement with local attractions, ensuring visitors leave with a lasting impression of Melaka.
This initiative is poised to elevate Melaka’s status on the global tourism map, attracting even more visitors in the years to come.
