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APRIL - JUNE ISSUE 2025 3

FOREWORD

Welcome aboard to the thirteenth edition of MMC Ports’

quarterly newsletter!

In this issue, we will share the latest insights and updates on On other fronts, Northport (Malaysia) Bhd's (Northport)
MMC Ports’ activities during the second quarter of the year. “Reinventing Northport” programme continues to serve
as a crux for the Port to enhance its handling capacity and
Global trade remains volatile for the upcoming months, with
geopolitical tensions, Red Sea diversions and tariff uncertainties operational efficiency, leading to the recent upgrading
of Wharf 9, procurement of new terminal equipment, and
still plaguing many countries around the world. In particular, the intensified efforts to streamline expenditures through the
increased tension in U.S.-China trade relations, as well as the
ongoing conflicts across the globe have led the World Trade implementation of continuous cost-saving measures under the
Cost Management Programme (CMP). Additionally, Johor Port
Organisation (WTO) to downgrade its 2025 global trade growth Berhad (Johor Port) continues to strengthen its dry bulk and
forecast to 0.2% from its previous estimate of 2.7%.
breakbulk handling capabilities, while further expanding its
However, these global market conditions present a good position as a leading liquid bulk hub through the commissioning
opportunity for Malaysian and other Southeast Asian ports to of Berths 13 & 14 and enhanced tank turnaround efficiency. Also,
become critical hubs in the international logistics chain, playing Penang Port Sdn Bhd (Penang Port) is committed to bolstering
a bigger role with further opportunities opening up due to the its connectivity, especially in terms of port-to-port relationships.
ports’ strategic locations as well as ever-improving capabilities This is exemplified through its Memorandums with Thanaleng
to deal with increased volumes, as seen through recent strides Dry Port (TDP) in Laos and with Bukit Kayu Hitam ICD Sdn Bhd
made by ports such as Pelabuhan Tanjung Pelepas Sdn Bhd (BKH ICD) for enhanced trade. On top of that, Penang Port also
(PTP) and Port Klang. Following a record-breaking 2024 and celebrated a significant milestone, with its new Penang ferry
an encouraging first quarter in which ports such as PTP thrived, successfully transporting 5 million passengers since launch.
Malaysian cargo ports are still projected to drive global growth Ports were acknowledged for their work during the past
through this year, with early projections of 817 million metric
tonnes handled due to recent increases in cargo flow and months. Representing Malaysia on the regional maritime stage,
demand for warehousing, distribution centres, industrial parks, PTP emerged as the winner in both the Best Collaborative
Teamwork Project category and the Best Supplier Relationship
and cold storage facilities.
Management Initiative category during the Chartered Institute
With today’s shifting market conditions, it is imperative that all of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) 2025, in recognition of their
ports keep up with the latest gaps and demands of the industry remarkable achievements on teamwork and innovation, as well
in order to stay ahead of the curve. MMC Ports’ overall strategy as the company’s strong commitment to operational excellence
in adapting to today’s latest trends is expanded on in our main and sustainable practices respectively. Furthermore, Penang
story: “Making Waves: Navigating The Latest Logistic Trends”. Port's Legal Department had been honoured with the Transport
and Logistics In-House Team of the Year award at the 12th Asian
In line with this, most of our ports have made considerable strides
even amidst these conditions. Notably, PTP continued to make Legal Business (ALB) Malaysia Law Awards 2025, underscoring
the team’s commitment and strong governance.
waves by setting yet another new record, handling 1,269,389
twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in a single month for May With that said, we would like to thank all readers, stakeholders,
2025 following previous monthly records of 1,183,759 TEUs and partners for their support throughout the year thus far.
(March) and 1,215,751 TEUs (April), marking three consecutive With a positive, progressive 6 months under our belts, we will
monthly records. Meanwhile, Tanjung Bruas Port Sdn Bhd endeavour to power through today’s shifting market landscapes
(Tanjung Bruas Port) successfully welcomed the largest vessel and finish strong, while also positioning ourselves for better
in its history on 24 July 2025. Measuring 183 meters in LOA years to come.
and carrying 7,320 metric tonnes of steel coils, the vessel was
berthed and fully discharged within 11 hours owing to seamless
coordination between the Port’s Operations and Marine teams.

Aerial view of Johor Port’s Container Terminal