Economic Boost for Melaka with New Cruise Terminal
Government Support for Maritime Economy
The construction of a cruise terminal in Pulau Melaka, Banda Hilir, is expected to significantly enhance Melaka’s economy through increased tourism, said Transport Minister Anthony Loke. This project aligns with the federal government’s focus on the maritime economy’s crucial role in national development.
Unlocking the Potential of Cruise Tourism
"Cruise tourism holds immense potential, especially as we are actively promoting this sector. We have major cruise ports including Port Klang and Penang," Loke said. "We anticipate that the completion of this terminal will significantly benefit the state’s economy and stimulate regional development."
Melaka International Maritime Economy Conference 2024
The Minister’s statement came during the launch of the 1st Melaka International Maritime Economy Conference 2024 (MIMEC 2024), officiated by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh. Other notable attendees included 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.
Boosting Economic Growth through Infrastructure Development
Meanwhile, Ab Rauf urged licence holders for port development in Melaka to expedite infrastructure construction to drive future economic growth. "Melaka has received approval from the Ministry of Transport for three port licences aimed at developing the maritime industry along the Melaka Straits, particularly within the Straits of Melaka Waterfront Economic Zone (SM-WEZ)," he said. "We encourage licence holders to accelerate their activities, so that these approvals can spur Melaka’s future development."
Conclusion
The construction of the cruise terminal in Pulau Melaka is set to bring significant economic benefits to the state, and the government’s support for the maritime economy is expected to drive growth and development in the region. With a focus on infrastructure development and tourism, Melaka is poised to become a major player in the maritime industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the purpose of the cruise terminal in Pulau Melaka?
The cruise terminal is expected to enhance Melaka’s economy through increased tourism. - What is the government’s focus on the maritime economy?
The government is promoting the maritime economy as an essential sector for national development. - What are the potential benefits of the cruise terminal?
The terminal is expected to benefit the state’s economy and stimulate regional development. - What is the status of port development in Melaka?
Melaka has received approval for three port licences aimed at developing the maritime industry along the Melaka Straits.