Yeo proposes Langkawi or Penang as Disney cruise hub

Malaysia should negotiate with Disney Cruise Line to turn Langkawi or Penang into a departure and arrival hub for its Disney Adventure cruise ship, said Dewan Rakyat today. Yeo Bee Yin (PH-Puchong) urged Malaysia to aim higher than merely being a port of call. She proposed that the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry initiate talks with Disney Cruise Line to explore making Langkawi or Penang an official embarkation and disembarkation port.

Yeo stressed that such an arrangement could entice tourists to stay in Malaysia for several days before or after their cruise, boosting local tourism. She pointed out that tourists boarding or departing from Langkawi could spend several days exploring the island. Yeo cited Disney Adventure's planned visit to Langkawi during a four-night cruise departing Singapore on Dec 31.

She projected the ship, which can carry 6,000 to 6,700 passengers, could make 25 to 30 trips annually, potentially generating 150,000 to 200,000 passenger movements to Langkawi.

Yeo estimated that passenger spending of RM250 to RM400 could result in RM35 million to RM80 million in direct annual spending on Langkawi, benefiting local businesses. However, she highlighted the need to ensure tourists disembark and spend money, rather than staying on board. She cited potential obstacles like long immigration queues and heavy traffic.

Yeo called for immigration authorities to streamline entry procedures and recommended upgrading international airports to handle rising tourist demand. She urged the Tourism Ministry to pursue the proposed partnership with Disney Cruise Line.