PTP sets new throughput record of 1.1m TEUs

This new record not only makes PTP the 1st port in Malaysia to achieve this feat back-to-back, but also reinforces its status as one of the leading maritime and transshipment hubs, both regionally and globally (Pics source: PTP)

by SHAUQI WAHAB

THE Port of Tanjung Pelepas (PTP) is the first port in Malaysia to exceed 1.1 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in monthly throughput without congestion.

This highlights its status as a leading maritime and transhipment hub regionally and globally.

The port has achieved this milestone by handling 1,115,181 TEUs in a single month, surpassing its previous record of 1,077,747 TEUs set in May of the same year.

PTP chairman Tan Sri Che Khalib Mohamad Noh said the port’s ability to achieve this record-breaking performance without any congestion solidifies PTP’s role as an indispensable link in the global supply chains.

He also highlighted that managing such significant cargo volumes smoothly shows PTP’s commitment to providing exceptional service to its customers and partners while contributing to Malaysia’s economic growth.

Global port congestion has been a significant issue, causing delays, disruptions to supply chains and increased costs.

The Red Sea Crisis, characterised by militant attacks on commercial vessels, has forced shipping liners to reroute ships via longer routes.

The route, which starts from Bab-El-Mandeb to pass through the narrow Suez Canal which handles 12% of world trade, has now become a lesser option for ship trading routes.

The latest victim was a merchant ship in the Gulf of Aden that was hit by a Houthi missile strike on Aug 3, 2022, which further exacerbated the problem.

Despite these challenges, PTP has managed to navigate through hese issues effectively, thanks to its emphasis on port asset upgrades.

These infrastructure enhancements lead to better performance, while at the same time adhering to its environmental, social and governance (ESG) agenda.

PTP CEO Mark Hardiman highlighted the importance of this achievement, noting that the port has consistently handled over one million TEUs for three consecutive months since May.

“Our journey has not been without its challenges, but it is precisely these trials that have shaped our resilience and determination,” he said in a statement.

While commemorating this big milestone record, he credited the port’s success to its focus on people, technology and processes, with safety as a core value and customers at the heart of its operations.

Hardiman also expressed gratitude to PTP’s customers, shareholders and dedicated staff, acknowledging their vital role in reaching this milestone.

PTP was recently recognised with the Industry Excellence Award for the Services Sector in Category 4 and the British Malaysia Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Award under the Outstanding ESG category.

Additionally, PTP was ranked as the fifth most efficient container port in the world by The World Bank and S&P Global Market Intelligence in the latest Container Port Performance Index 2023.

PTP’s continuous efforts in port asset upgrades and infrastructure improvements, in line with its ESG agenda and digitalisation strategy, have been important in achieving these results.

The port’s strategic approach has enabled it to handle substantial cargo volumes efficiently and maintain its position as a key player in the global shipping industry. Currently, PTP is Malaysia’s busiest transhipment hub, capable of handling 13 million TEUs annually.

A joint venture between Malaysia-based MMC Corp Bhd (70%) and Netherlands-based APM Terminals (30%), PTP offers reliable, efficient and advanced services to major shipping lines and box operators, providing extensive connectivity to the global market.

MMC Corp is a leading utility and infrastructure group with diversified businesses under four core divisions: Ports and logistics, energy and utilities, engineering and industrial development.

MMC’s port operations include several key Malaysian ports and an international presence in Saudi Arabia.

The company is also involved in energy generation, water treatment, and significant infrastructure projects, such as the Klang Valley Mass Rapid Transit and the Stormwater Management and Road Tunnel (SMART) Motorway.

Meanwhile, APM Terminals operates one of the world’s most comprehensive port networks, handling around 40 million TEUs per year.

With 74 terminals globally, APM Terminals focuses on delivering operational excellence and solutions that enhance supply chain efficiency, flexibility and dependability.

APM Terminals is part of AP Moller-Maersk, employing 21,000 industry professionals dedicated to helping businesses reach their potential.

PTP’s record-breaking throughput shows its vital part in global trade, showcasing its capability to manage high cargo volumes efficiently and its commitment to continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.