Port Klang turns to online solutions for efficient container lorry management

KLANG: The Port Klang Authority (PKA) has turned to online solutions to reduce the number of container lorries on the road, as well as to improve service efficiency.

The solutions, known as the Cargomove System and Linkhaul System, are the result of the collaboration between PKA, Northport, Westports and two private companies.

With the two systems, all delivery and collection of cargo from the port terminals will be timed, thus ending impromptu arrivals and departure of heavy vehicles.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke, who launched the solutions at a hotel here Wednesday (July 3), said the systems also aimed to increase the efficiency of cargo transportation at the port.

“One of the main problems here is heavy congestion because of the container lorries plying to and from Port Klang," Loke told a press conference after the launch.

He said currently some cargo trailers went out empty after delivering goods and some come in empty to collect goods. This created congestion on the roads as well as in the ports.

“We want them to come in with cargo and go out with cargo as well.

“When these trailers come in with cargo and leave with cargo, the road congestion will be countered," he added.

According to Loke, trailers were making four trips if they came in with goods and left empty or came in empty to take transport out goods.

With the online solutions, the four trips would be reduced to two.

The Cargomove System is a platform for haulers to pre-book trips to the ports according to their preferred timing. The solution will continue to update the hauler's location enroute to the port and this will ensure immediate service upon arrival, doing away with the need to queue for pick-up or delivery.

The Linkhaul System, on the other hand, identifies imbalanced trips and recommend "return" jobs so that lorries don't come in or go out empty.

Earlier in his speech, Loke said the government would focus on its maritime industry.

He said Malaysia’s asset was its location along the Straits of Malacca, one of the busiest sea routes in the world.

Loke promised he would do his utmost  as Transport Minister to lure in business into the nation’s ports.

“I will play the role as the number one marketing man," he said.

However, he added, the onus was on the industry players to develop Malaysia into a regional distribution centre and maritime nation.