JOHOR BARU: Malaysia’s port operators should increase efficiency to remain competitive in the face of challenges including developments in other countries, says Anthony Loke.
The Transport Minister said Malaysia should leverage on its strategic location along one of the busiest maritime routes in the world.
“Situated in the Melaka Straits and South China Sea, Malaysia has three main ports along that route - Port of Tanjung Pelepas in Johor, Port Klang and Port of Penang.
“There are also several ports in the pipeline by the private sector so we should not have to worry about (external) competition, the most important thing is that we increase our efficiency and services,” he said after opening the 22nd Asean Ports and Logistics Exhibition and Conference here on Wednesday (Oct 23).
The minister was asked to comment on Thailand’s plans to build a 90km land bridge across its southern region, which could see shipping trade bypass Malaysia and Singapore.
“That project belongs to our neighbour Thailand.
“Other countries have the right to develop their own country and infrastructure. We cannot obstruct them from doing so.
“What we can do is have good and open trade and foreign policies. We have to have confidence in ourselves,” Loke said.
It was reported that on Feb 16, the Thai Parliament approved the proposed report on the Chumphon-Ranong Land Bridge mega project with a development concept involving the construction of a new port in Chumphon and Ranong that is connected to the infrastructure of highways, railways and channels pipe.
