Malaysian ports are strategically positioned to drive the country’s transition towards greener port operations, leveraging their pivotal role in connecting domestic industries with global markets and strengthening ASEAN’s trade ties with major partners, particularly China.
Southeast Asia Advanced Manufacturing and Technology Council (SEAMAT) chairman Datuk Tan Yew Chong said a greener port should be seen as a stronger port, delivering greater productivity, stronger connectivity, enhanced resilience and better readiness for the demands of the future.
"A green port cannot be delivered by a port operator alone. It requires shipping lines, industry, energy providers, transport agencies, financiers, regulators and communities to move in the same direction.
"Therefore, the opportunity is substantial. Better ports can help Malaysian industry reach markets reliably, support skilled jobs and strengthen trade across ASEAN and with China," he said in his opening speech at the Green Ports 2026 International Conference in Klang today. Tan has also outlined five key priorities to improve port performance, focusing on productivity, connectivity, emissions reduction, digitalisation and cross-border cooperation. He said ports should improve productivity by reducing vessel waiting times, cargo delays and equipment downtime, with better scheduling and maintenance helping to lower costs and emissions simultaneously."Ports should strengthen connections.
A port must work as part of a network of roads, rail, industrial areas, customs services and logistics centres. The last kilometre matters as much as the new berth," he said. Furthermore, he said ports should reduce emissions through a practical and measured approach, beginning with the measurement of energy use and emissions before acting on opportunities that are ready for implementation.
These include the use of more efficient equipment and lighting, better traffic management and maintenance, as well as suitable electrification and larger investments. "Malaysian ports should leverage digital tools to address real operational challenges, including helping trucks avoid unnecessary journeys, reducing vessel waiting times and enabling operators to identify equipment problems before they cause delays.
"In addition, ports serve regional supply chains. Malaysia should work with ASEAN partners and China on smoother cargo movement, compatible digital processes, skills and, where commercially viable, cleaner shipping routes," he added.
Robban Assafina is now on WhatsApp channel. Click Here
