Lumut: The Ex-Hang Tuah vessel, officially handed over to the Perak government today, will be transformed into the Royal Ship Hang Tuah Memorial Museum, which is expected to open to the public in 2027 as a new maritime tourism attraction in the state.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad stated that the project, which integrates elements of historical heritage, education, tourism, and community development, is aimed at ensuring the historic asset is preserved and utilised for future generations. The memorial museum will be developed through a public-private partnership (PPP) between Menteri Besar Incorporated (MB Inc) Perak and Aero Art Sdn Bhd, which will coordinate and oversee the implementation of the project.

The project will include a public park with free access, a commercial zone for local entrepreneurs, family and community activity spaces, as well as facilities for organising programmes, exhibitions, and conferences. "The first phase of the project will cost RM30 million and will be implemented in stages," Saarani told a press conference after the handover ceremony by the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN), represented by Western Fleet Commander Vice Admiral Datuk Baharudin Wan Md Nor, at the Lumut Naval Base.

Saarani added that the development is also intended to revitalise the Marina Wing and Esplanade areas in Lumut through increased visitor arrivals, greater business activity, and the creation of employment opportunities for the local community. "The project is in line with the Perak Sejahtera 2030 Plan, which emphasises sustainable development to stimulate the local economy, expand income-generating opportunities, and deliver direct benefits to the people," he said.

He noted that the military tourism concept introduced through the memorial museum will diversify the state's maritime tourism products while serving as the state government's tribute to the service and sacrifices of RMN personnel in safeguarding the nation's maritime security and sovereignty.