GEORGE TOWN: The Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) is ready to welcome international cruise ships after two years, says Penang Port Commission (PPC) chairman Datuk Tan Teik Cheng.

       He said since February 2020, the whole world had been hit by the Covid-19 pandemic and international cruise ships had stopped sailing for two years.

       "This means no international cruise ships have stopped at the SPCT for two years," he said.

       Tan made the announcement when PPC donated kuih raya packages and hampers to seafarers and parties involved in the Penang Port management, including government department agencies.

       "These are all contributions from PPC, traders and individuals to put a smile on their faces in the joy of celebrating Hari Raya Aidilfitri."

       Tan said Spectrum of the Seas, under renowned international cruise company Royal Caribbean Cruises LTD, with a capacity of 4,000 people, would depart Singapore in early June and stop at Port Klang on June 8 and at SPCT on June 11 before continuing on to Phuket.

       "Spectrum of the Seas will definitely stimulate Penang's economic and tourism sector," he said.

       Tan added that SPCT has been listed as a leading cruise ship terminal in Malaysia and aims to be a major port in the region.

       He said he was confident that more international cruise ships will dock at SPCT in the future, which will drive the development of Penang.

       "The tourism industry will be the first industry to benefit and this will then give a positive impact on all walks of life.

       "Oftentimes, tourists will land in Penang when the cruise ship stops at SPCT.

       "With this, all walks of life will benefit such as food premises, original products, jewellery, fashion industry, souvenirs, taxis, rickshaws, buses and others and this will definitely contribute significantly to the economy of Penang.

       "June is a good starting point. I hope all levels of society will be prepared and adhere to the SOPs set to welcome the arrival of tourists from cruise ships so that we can achieve glorious achievements in the port sector as well as the economic sector."