The estimated 2 billion ringgit (US$425 million) port will
utilize artificial intelligence to improve operational efficiency, becoming the
first port in Malaysia to do so. Local property developer Tanco Holdings,
through its subsidiary Midports Holdings, will lead the development in collaboration
with China-based marine engineering company CCCC Dredging Co., a group company
of state-owned China Communications Construction Co.
The parties signed a memorandum of understanding earlier
this month.
According to an announcement, the port will be developed in
the city of Port Dickson, in the state of Negeri Sembilan. Close to Kuala
Lumpur and the midpoint of the Malacca Strait, it could benefit from high
traffic and connectivity to key industrial regions in Malaysia.
"The construction of this port will contribute to
Malaysia's goal of establishing a modern and efficient port hub, accelerating
economic development in Negeri Sembilan, and bolstering Malaysia's global trade
position," Tanco Group Managing Director Andrew Tan Juan Suan said in a
statement.
"This collaboration with CCCC Dredging marks a pivotal
step towards realizing our vision of a world-class port in Port Dickson. The
expertise and resources brought by CCCC Dredging will ensure the successful
implementation of this project, which is set to drive economic growth and
create job opportunities in the region."
The proposed port will feature a 1.8-kilometer jetty,
terminal and container operation area of approximately 809,300 sq. meters. It
will be able to accommodate the largest container ships, according to Negeri
Sembilan Chief Minister Aminuddin Harun, as cited in a report by Malaysian
national news agency Bernama.
The companies have yet to announce an expected completion
date.
As global companies diversify their supply chains,
Malaysia has emerged as a beneficiary, attracting investments from electronics
and other manufacturers. Klang Port, the country's largest, plans to double
its capacity to capture demand, operator Westports Holdings recently told
Nikkei Asia.
Aminuddin said the new port could greatly boost the nation's
logistics and marine transport services industry, as a network of roads and
highways will connect it to major industrial areas.
According to the announcement, AI technology will enhance
the port's operational efficiency, reduce human error and lower the accident
rate. The AI system will analyze traffic data, schedule ship movements, track
marine operations around the port and manage automated logistics.
These advancements are anticipated to streamline processes,
reduce operational costs and minimize environmental impact. The port will also
feature automated cranes, self-driving trucks and top-tier cybersecurity
measures with the capacity to receive large container ships, according to the
announcement.
