By Zaki
LUMUT: The Royal Ship Hang Tuah Memorial Museum is set to become a new tourist attraction in Lumut when it is expected to be completed and opened to the public in 2027.
Perak Menteri Besar, Dato’ Seri Saarani Mohamad, said the project will not only preserve the heritage of the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) but also boost tourism, the local economy, and community development.
He said this while officiating the handover ceremony of the ex-Hang Tuah vessel from the Royal Malaysian Navy to the Perak State Government at the RMN Lumut Naval Base.
According to him, the ship, formerly known as HMS Mermaid before being commissioned as KD Hang Tuah in 1977, holds an important place in Malaysia’s maritime defence history.
One of its most significant achievements was its participation in Operation Fajar in the Gulf of Aden in 2009, escorting and protecting Malaysian merchant vessels from pirate threats.
Saarani said the memorial would serve as an educational platform to inspire younger generations and honour the sacrifices of the nation’s security personnel.
The project will be implemented through a public-private partnership between Menteri Besar Incorporated (MB Inc.) and Aero Art Sdn. Bhd.
The development will include a public park, commercial zone, family recreation areas, as well as facilities for exhibitions and conferences.
It is also expected to revitalise the Marina Wing and Lumut Esplanade by attracting more visitors and creating new economic opportunities for the local community.
Also present at the ceremony was Western Fleet Commander, Vice Admiral Dato’ Baharudin Wan Md Nor.
