Penang: Angkatan Koperasi Kebangsaan Malaysia Berhad (Angkasa) has invested RM2 million to purchase two cruise boats as part of its new venture into eco marine tourism through sailing experiences in Penang waters. Angkasa president Datuk Seri Dr Abdul Fattah Abdullah said the initiative would bring a fresh dimension to the tourism industry, particularly through the involvement of the cooperative movement.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the high-impact project received partial funding from the government through the Implementation Coordination Unit and the Penang Bumiputera Development Council, alongside contributions from participating cooperatives. Abdul Fattah mentioned that a catamaran and a sailing boat will be utilized to take visitors around Penang waters, with an expected return on investment of between eight and 10 percent within three years. This was disclosed to reporters at Forest Island during the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signing ceremony between Angkasa and Forest Eco Sdn Bhd chairman, Alvin Poh, witnessed by Penang Agrotechnology, Food Security and Cooperative Development Committee chairman Fahmi Zainol.
Forest Island, an 80,000 sq ft kelong (offshore platform), is outfitted with facilities such as fishing spots, kayaking, a restaurant, and Malaysia's first sea-based pickleball court. Abdul Fattah explained that the collaboration, via Angkasa's associate company My Ancasa Travel Sdn Bhd, will develop eco marine cruise packages that emphasize environmental sustainability.
He stated that the project would also create opportunities for new activities such as water sports, guided tours, environmental education, and eco-friendly marine programs, with packages starting at RM99. Moreover, Abdul Fattah highlighted that the collaboration is expected to generate economic benefits for coastal communities through support services such as tour boats, food and beverage, handicrafts, and local tour guides.
Meanwhile, Fahmi Zainol expressed that the state government supports the initiative as it aims to attract more domestic and international tourists to Penang while promoting eco-tourism.