GEORGE TOWN, January 2 — Tourism Malaysia will expand the scope of its Charter Flight Matching Grant (GSPC) to include the cruise sector beginning in 2026, in a strategic move to boost international tourist arrivals via sea routes.
Deputy chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin said the RM50 million grant, previously limited to charter flights, will now allow cruise operators, agents and tour operators bringing cruise ships to Malaysia, particularly to Penang, to apply for support.
Speaking after welcoming cruise passengers at the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026, Yeoh said the expanded incentive aligns with efforts to position Penang Port as a leading regional cruise hub and attract more high-spending tourists.
Tourism Malaysia is targeting close to one million cruise passenger arrivals via Penang in 2026, with an estimated 170 international cruise ship calls, up from 120 in 2025. He added that the move comes amid the recovery of the global cruise industry.
And will be complemented by nationwide promotional efforts at key entry points, alongside digital campaigns and gastronomic tourism initiatives highlighting Penang’s renowned food scene.
