Hwajing Travel & Tours proudly made history by being recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records as the ‘1st International Chartered Cruise Homeporting in Malaysia’. This prestigious accolade was officially presented onboard the Costa Serena, which sailed on a three-day journey from Port Klang to Penang and back from 13 to 15 December 2024.

L-R : A representative from Malaysia Book of Records, YBhg. Dato’ Yeoh Soon Hin, Deputy Chairman of Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board (Malaysia of Tourism, Arts & Culture Malaysia), Kenny Cheong, Managing Director of Hwajing Travel & Tours and the Captain of Costa Serena.
The historic moment was held on 14 December 2024 as Costa Serena docked at Penang’s Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal. The certificate was presented onboard Costa Serena by YBhg. Dato’ Yeoh Soon Hin, Deputy Chairman of Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board (Malaysia of Tourism, Arts & Culture Malaysia) to Kenny Cheong, Managing Director of Hwajing Travel & Tours. The momentous occasion was further graced by distinguished representatives from the Malaysia Book of Records and other esteemed guests.

A proud and memorable moment
“Today’s milestone marks a significant leap forward for Malaysia’s cruise tourism industry, reflecting our commitment to enhancing connectivity and offering world-class travel experiences. We applaud Hwajing Travel & Tours for their visionary efforts in chartering the first international cruise homeporting in Malaysia, an achievement that not only elevates our status as a regional cruise hub but also drives economic growth and promotes our nation’s beauty to the world,” said YBhg. Dato’ Yeoh.

“This achievement is a proud moment for Hwajing Travel & Tours and for Malaysia’s tourism industry as a whole. Being recognized by the Malaysia Book of Records for bringing the first international chartered cruise homeporting to our shores underscores our dedication to positioning Malaysia as a premier travel destination. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture Malaysia and our esteemed partners for their unwavering support in making this vision a reality. The Costa Serena marks just the beginning of our journey to introduce Malaysians to the joys of cruise travel while showcasing the beauty and diversity of our nation to global travellers,” said Mr. Cheong.
Following the inaugural season of Italian cruise line, Costa Serena earlier this year, Hwajing Travel & Tours not only is boosting cruise tourism in Malaysia but supporting local businesses in the Port Klang area. It was also the only cruise ship sailing from Port Klang to Phuket in December, making it perfect for a fuss-free, inexpensive and inclusive vacation.
Established in 1989, Hwajing Travel has been a pioneer in providing affordable, exceptional vacations, with a particular focus on cruise products. With over 30 years of experience, the agency has grown into one of the leading travel providers in the Asia-Pacific region, known for crafting memorable cruise experiences. Offering diverse itineraries and destinations, Hwajing Travel ensures something for every traveller. As a trusted agent for Royal Caribbean Cruise, Costa Cruise, and many world-class cruise liners, including the highly-anticipated Disney Cruise, the agency delivers exclusive deals and unparalleled service.
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