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Princess Cruises sees strong growth ahead for Malaysia
The head of Southeast Asia for Princess Cruises sees Malaysia as a booming market with potential for opening up many new cruise itineraries.
Farriek Tawfik said enthusiastic government support and some of the best infrastructure in the region will fuel growth in the Malaysian cruise market.
"The year-on-year growth also reflects abundant potential for the country. In 2013, Malaysia received 512,400 cruise passengers compared to 475,990 passengers in the previous year reflecting a growth of 7.6%," Tawfik said.
"Aside from that, there is strong government support in promoting cruise tourism especially with it being a focus in the Tourism National Key Economic Area.
"The government of Malaysia is looking to create the Straits Riviera Cruise Playground along the Straits of Malacca where it aims to generate RM1.75 billion in gross national income and create 10,000 jobs by 2020."
He said annual growth for Asia is 14% and forecasts a total of 3.7 million passengers by 2017.
"This year, the total passengers in Asia is expected to be at 2.17 million, with 26 cruise lines operating a total of 981 cruises in the region on 52 ships, he added.
"Asians generally want bigger ships which offer more facilities and entertainment, where trips with several destinations, allowing them to experience different food and cultures in one go while American and European cruisers are middle aged seasoned travellers, who currently make up the majority of cruise travellers."
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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