The RM 155 million expansion works at Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) are scheduled to begin next month.
Upon the planned completion in a year’s time, the cruise terminal's length will be expanded northwards from the current 545 meters to 793 meters. According to Penang Port Commission chairman, Jeffrey Chew, the terminal will still be open during the expansion period.
It was previously reported that upon completion, the cruise terminal would be able to handle a pair of mega-sized cruise ships simultaneously on the outer berths as well as one small-sized and one medium ship on the inner berths.
Chew revealed they recorded a total of 1.2 million cruise passenger arrivals per year. He also said the expansion was crucial as they were expecting around 2 million passenger arrivals starting 2020.
On the proposed East Seafront Project stretching from the old PYC (Penang Yacht Club) to Tanjung City Marina, Chew announced it would take off in 6 months’ time. The 4.8 ha site would feature a cultural and commercial district which complies with heritage guidelines set under the SAP (Special Area Plan) for the Unesco Heritage site.