Perak: Perak is ready to become a major cruise tourism hub by offering an alternative to existing ports, such as Port Klang and Penang, said Perak Tourism, Industry, Investment and Corridor Development Committee chairman Loh Sze Yee. He said the arrival of the Star Dream Cruise in the state for the first time, carrying about 3,000 international tourists, is seen capable of having a significant multiplier effect on local businesses, such as food and beverage, retail, handicrafts, and transportation.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the cruise ship not only promotes Perak's cultural heritage but also enhances the state's image on the global stage, attracts investments in the tourism sector, and creates opportunities for infrastructure development and improved tourism services. Loh emphasized that the ship's arrival creates new employment opportunities for local residents in fields like hospitality, tour guiding, and the handicraft industry. The increase in tourist arrivals is expected to spur economic growth in areas around Lumut, Sitiawan, and Ipoh, making tourism more dynamic.
Loh mentioned that tourists have the option to take a ferry directly to Pangkor Island upon arrival or disembark at Marina Island before heading to Ipoh to explore various tourist sites and attractions. The state government is also in talks with the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) to expand the promotion of tourism and community-based products from Chinese New Villages and Malay villages around Manjung to international visitors. This initiative aims to introduce the uniqueness of local culture and products to the global market.
He highlighted the attractions in the Chinese villages, such as traditional Hokchiu foods like Kompia, Ang Chow Mee Suah, and Kampung Koh chili sauce. Similarly, the Malay villages offer popular products like fish satay, ikan bilis, and sambal ikan bilis Mata Biru, which can be introduced to international tourists. The cruise ship's call at Perak is a pilot effort anticipated to be further enhanced in the future, including providing more local products and tourist attractions in a single location for easier shopping experiences.
The state government and Tourism Perak are committed to supporting cruise tourism development and improving infrastructure, facilities, and services to ensure the best experience for visitors. The Pan Silver Ferry initiative will continue to serve as the main link between Marina Island Jetty and Pulau Pangkor. The cruise ship is also scheduled to return on June 22, and preparations are underway with Tourism Perak, the Immigration Department, and Customs to ensure the smooth arrival of tourists on that date.