Malaysia marked a significant milestone on 29 November 2025 with the official maiden voyage of M/V Piano Land, the first Chinese cruise ship to be homeported in the country. The vessel’s inaugural sailing was commemorated with a special Welcome Reception and Flag-Raising Ceremony held at the Port Klang Cruise Terminal (PKCT).
The debut of M/V Piano Land represents an important step forward in positioning Malaysia as a leading regional cruise hub and reinforces the nation’s growing prominence in Muslim-friendly and family-oriented cruise travel.
The historic debut represents not only a major advancement for Malaysia’s cruise tourism ambitions, but also a milestone for China’s home-grown cruise line. The launch of M/V Piano Land on its first “overseas homeport” voyage into Southeast Asia represents an important step in showcasing Chinese cultural tourism on the international stage.
As China’s first independently operated luxury cruise ship and the flagship vessel of Astro Ocean Cruise, M/V Piano Land’s deployment signifies a transition from domestic operations to broader international exploration.
The birth and upgrade of M/V Piano Land reflect China’s independent breakthroughs in cruise development. Originally a European classic named by Queen Elizabeth II herself, this 70,000-ton luxury cruise ship blends British elegance with Chinese-style service, retaining European ceremonial sophistication while perfectly catering to the preferences of Asian travellers. The result is a premium maritime vacation experience that combines international quality with local warmth, propelling Chinese cruise brands toward greater achievements on the global stage.
The ceremony began with the arrival of distinguished VIP guests, including YBrs. Mr. Lee Thai Hung, Deputy Director General (Promotions II) of Tourism Malaysia; YBrs. Ms. Chua Yee Ling, Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Selangor; YBrs. Mr. Kenny Cheong Ken Lee, Founder of Hwajing Travel & Tours; YBrs. Mr. Ean Yong Hian Wah, Chairman of Port Klang Authority; YBhg. Dato’ Azman Shah Mohd Yusof, Chairman of Port Klang Cruise Terminal (PKCT); YBrs. Mr. Alvin Geoffrey Alphonso, Chief Executive Officer of PKCT; YBhg. Dato’ Eddie Lee, Group Managing Director of Westports Holdings.
A key highlight of the event was the Plaque Exchange Ceremony, a maritime tradition honouring a ship’s first homeport call. Two exchanges took place:
- YBhg. Dato’ Azman Shah Mohd Yusof, Chairman of PKCT, exchanged plaques with Captain Hou Rubo, representing M/V Piano Land.
- This was followed by YBrs. Mr. Ean Yong Hian Wah, Chairman of Port Klang Authority, who also exchanged plaques with Captain Hou Rubo of M/V Piano Land.
These exchanges symbolised a warm welcome to M/V Piano Land and further strengthened cooperation between Malaysia and its international cruise partners.
“The decision to homeport in Malaysia reflects the deep, long-term partnership between Hwajing Travel & Tours, Astro Ocean Cruise, and 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,” said YBhg. Dato’ Azman Shah Mohd Yusof, Chairman of PKCT.
Mr. 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,” as the company celebrates its 36th anniversary.
