MIRI: The stopover of international cruise ship MV Coral Geographer reflected continued confidence among global cruise operators in Sarawak as an international tourism destination, despite passenger landings being cancelled due to rough sea conditions.
Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew said the port call remained significant in strengthening Sarawak’s tourism profile at the international level.
The Australian-flagged vessel was carrying 117 passengers and crew during its stopover in Miri.
“We remain optimistic of achieving five million tourist arrivals in 2025, with cruise tourism among the key growth drivers heading into 2026,” he said in a statement through his private secretary Chia Kah Furng.
Meanwhile, Miri Port Authority general manager Serawa Budol said safety considerations had been prioritised following unfavourable sea conditions.
“Although passengers were unable to disembark, all reception preparations, including cultural elements, were carried out,” he said.
