MATTA, CLIA join forces to grow cruise tourism in Malaysia

MATTA's Tan Kok Liang (left) and CLIA's Andy Harmer sealing the deal at WTM London

The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) and the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) have inked an MoU to collaboratively drive emerging cruise tourism in Malaysia.

The MoU signing ceremony was completed by MATTA president, Tan Kok Liang, and CLIA senior vice president, membership and director UK & Ireland, Andy Harmer, and witnessed by Malaysia’s minister of tourism, arts and culture Mohamaddin Ketapi at WTM London.

CLIA’s Andy Harmer (left) and MATTA’s Tan Kok Liang sealing the deal at WTM London

Tan said: “Cruise is one of the fastest-growing leisure travel segments globally and has been picking up steam in Malaysia. According to CLIA’s Asia Cruise Trends Report 2018, Malaysian cruise source passenger count nearly doubled in 2017, an increase of 87,000 passengers, or about 88 per cent up year over year.

“Meanwhile, the number of international cruise call to local ports has grown to 599 at 2017 compared to 435 at 2016. The number of intermediate stops by international cruise holiday ships is expected to grow to 628 by year 2020.”

The cooperation will focus on the development and sustainable growth of the cruise tourism in Malaysia through education and awareness to members, Tan added.

He further expects that members of both associations will be able to leverage each other’s technical knowledge, expertise and experience for expansion and growth.

“We are optimistic that this strategic cooperation will create favourable conditions for the continuous growth of cruise tourism in Malaysia and enhance members business offerings and services to consumers.”

Sponsored Post