GEORGE TOWN: Competitiveness in the maritime sector will depend increasingly on digital intelligence, governance capabilities and regional cooperation rather than physical infrastructure alone, says Penang Port Commission chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin.
He said ports must integrate digital transformation in their end-to-end operations and governance systems to improve efficiency, transparency and compliance.
"In line with the vision of Transport Minister Anthony Loke, PPC remains committed to advancing smart governance and digital transformation while strengthening collaboration with strategic partners from China to jointly build a more resilient and sustainable regional maritime ecosystem," he said during a joint dialogue on exploring artificial intelligence and digital transformation in port management in Nanning, China on Tuesday (May 26).
Yeoh said Malaysia-China cooperation in the maritime sector carried growing strategic importance as future competitiveness would depend heavily on digital interoperability, intelligent logistics ecosystems and deeper cross-border collaboration.
He cited PPC’s newly launched E-Penang Dangerous Cargo and Free Zone (e-PDCFZ) platform as an example of digitalisation efforts.
"The platform officially commenced operations on May 1.
"This is not only the launch of a technological system, but a significant milestone in PPC’s journey towards smarter and more transparent port governance," he said.
According to Yeoh, the platform improves governance through a unified digital workflow, real-time monitoring and greater audit visibility while laying the foundation for future-ready operations.
He said the system offered three key benefits: enhanced operational efficiency, greater transparency, and stronger compliance standards through a structured digital regulatory mechanism.
"These capabilities are increasingly critical in addressing global supply chain restructuring, growing complexities in the shipping environment, and rising sustainability expectations," he added.
Loke, who officiated the event, also highlighted the strategic importance of Malaysia-China cooperation in enhancing regional connectivity and accelerating maritime digital transformation.
