Singapore explores Sabah's cruise tourism potential
KOTA KINABALU (July 31): Suria Capital Holdings Berhad (Suria Capital) recently welcomed an official visit by delegates from the Singapore Tourism Board (SGTB) and Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore (MBCCS), marking a strategic step forward in positioning Sabah, particularly Kota Kinabalu Port, as an emerging destination and port-of-call for international cruise liners.
The delegation expressed strong interest in integrating Sabah into new regional cruise itineraries, reflecting a shared aspiration to strengthen Southeast Asia's cruise ecosystem through strategic partnerships and sustainable port development.
Discussions during the visit explored potential infrastructure investments with the aim of supporting sustainable, long-term cruise operations and reinforcing Sabah's position within the global cruise tourism market. The delegation also shared regional cruise industry trends and strategic insights to guide future collaboration efforts.
Also present during the engagement were representatives from the Sabah Tourism Board, who shared the state's diverse portfolio of attractions and outlined strategic plans under the 'Visit Sabah 2026' campaign.
Their presentation reinforced Sabah's appeal as a well-rounded and attractive destination for cruise passengers.
Datuk Ng Kiat Min, Group Managing Director of Suria Capital, welcomed the visitors and remarked, 'Kota Kinabalu is uniquely positioned with its rich cultural heritage, pristine natural landscapes, and growing tourism infrastructure. We see great potential in establishing new cruise itineraries connecting Singapore and East Malaysia. These collaborations offer not only regional economic benefits but also opportunities for cruise passengers to enjoy authentic and memorable shore excursions that highlight the best of Borneo.'
Ng further shared Suria Capital's long-term vision to develop a dedicated International Cruise Terminal (ICT) as part of the Jesselton Docklands masterplan.
During the visit, the delegation toured BEDI Development's 'Live Lab', where they were briefed on the overall masterplan.
BEDI Development is Suria Capital's joint venture partner in the Jesselton Docklands project, a large-scale waterfront development aimed at transforming the Kota Kinabalu Port area into a vibrant tourism, commercial and lifestyle hub.
The proposed ICT, a key component of this masterplan, is envisioned as a modern gateway designed to accommodate growing passenger volumes and deliver world-class cruise terminal facilities.
Suria Capital reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Sabah's tourism and economic growth in line with the objectives of 'Visit Sabah 2026', as well as the broader aspiration of positioning the state as a premier cruise tourism destination in the region.
The Group is focused on building strong partnerships with both local authorities and international stakeholders to realise this shared vision.
The visiting delegation included representatives from SATS-Creuers Cruise Services, the terminal operator for MBCCS, one of Asia's leading cruise terminals and a key gateway for international cruise passengers arriving in Singapore, consisting Gregory Tan, Chief Executive Officer; Jann How, Head of Business Development & Marketing; Jacqueline Ng, Head of Special Projects; and Muhd Rusyaidi, Operations Manager.
They were joined by SGTB officials – Ting Lee Tee, Senior Manager, Malaysia, Thailand & Brunei International Group; and Jocelyn Heng, Senior Manager, Cruise Industry Development, Policy & Planning Group.
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