Kuala lumpur: Perbadanan Pembangunan Sungai dan Pantai Melaka (PPSPM) is optimistic of achieving its target of one million passengers on the Melaka River Cruise (MRC) by the end of this year. PPSPM chief executive officer Shaharul Azuar Idris reported that as of June, approximately 350,000 passengers had embarked on the iconic tourism attraction along the Melaka River to experience the scenic surroundings.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, about 60 percent of the target for MRC passengers still needs to be achieved by the end of the year, prompting PPSPM to offer various attractive packages at special prices. The organization is intensifying promotions both locally and internationally to position the MRC as a must-visit and must-try tourism product in Melaka. These remarks were made by Shaharul Azuar during the presentation of the Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) certificate and prizes to winners of the Melaka River Festival 2026 at Dataran Pengkalan Rama, officiated by Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh.
Shaharul Azuar elaborated that PPSPM continuously enhances its boat services to improve safety and provide greater comfort for passengers. PPSPM currently operates a fleet of 60 boats, with 30 servicing the Melaka River and the other 30 dedicated to the Eco Cruise at Tasik Chinchin. Plans are underway to introduce new boats with the latest technologies, although these proposals are still under evaluation. Existing premium boats, such as the 'Everlasting Love Boat' and 'Tun Khalil Cruise', have been upgraded with attractive packages, including dining-on-board experiences.
Shaharul Azuar also stated that more than 5,000 visitors are expected to enjoy free rides on the MRC and Eco Cruise Tasik Chinchin during the National Day celebration on August 31. This package, offered by the state government under the Melaka Sayang Rakyat (MeSRa) initiative, serves as a gift to the people of Melaka while simultaneously boosting the state's tourism sector. He assured that every aspect, including staffing and boat availability, will be fully prepared to minimize waiting times and enhance the visitor experience.