Malaysia marked a milestone in regional cruise tourism with the official maiden voyage of M/V Piano Land, the first Chinese cruise ship to be homeported in the country. The inaugural sailing was celebrated with a Welcome Reception and Flag-Raising Ceremony at the Port Klang Cruise Terminal (PKCT).
The debut of M/V Piano Land represents a significant step in positioning Malaysia as a regional cruise hub and strengthens the nation’s profile in Muslim-friendly and family-oriented cruise travel. The vessel is China’s first independently operated luxury cruise ship and the flagship of Astro Ocean Cruises, marking a transition from domestic operations to broader international exploration.
Originally a European classic named by Queen Elizabeth II, the 70,000-ton M/V Piano Land blends British elegance with Chinese-style service, combining ceremonial sophistication with features tailored to Asian travellers. The launch reflects China’s independent breakthroughs in cruise development while promoting Chinese cultural tourism internationally.
The ceremony was attended by VIP guests, including Lee Thai Hung, Deputy Director General of Tourism Malaysia, Chua Yee Ling, CEO of Tourism Selangor, Cheong Ken Lee, Founder of Hwajing Travel & Tours. Also, Ean Yong Hian Wah, Chairman of Port Klang Authority.
A Plaque Exchange Ceremony, a maritime tradition marking a ship’s first homeport call, took place between Dato’ Azman Shah Mohd Yusof, Chairman of PKCT, and Chairman Hou Rubo of M/V Piano Land, followed by a second exchange with Ean Yong Hian Wah. The exchanges symbolised a warm welcome and reinforced cooperation between Malaysia and its international cruise partners.
Dato’ Azman Shah Mohd Yusof said, “The decision to homeport in Malaysia reflects the deep, long-term partnership between Hwajing Travel & Tours, Astro Ocean Cruises, and Port Klang Cruise Terminal (PKCT). This collaboration further strengthens Malaysia’s ambition to become ASEAN’s leading gateway for cruise tourism, offering a diverse range of cruise segments and experiences.”
Kenny Cheong, Managing Director of Hwajing Travel & Tours, added that the arrival of M/V Piano Land “reaffirms our commitment to making cruise holidays more accessible and enriching for travellers across Malaysia and Southeast Asia,” coinciding with the company’s 36th anniversary.
