Northport (M) Bhd is projecting that its import volumes will continue to bolster its conventional cargo throughput. The port is preparing for increased vessel traffic as it adapts to shifts in global trade patterns. Datuk Azman Shah Mohd Yusof, Chief Executive Officer, noted that recent disruptions at major ports, including Singapore Port, have led to increased traffic at Northport.
“We have observed a rise in import containers due to these disruptions, with Northport handling over 171 additional vessel calls this year,” he told Bernama at the International Conference on Maritime Logistics and Ports 2024. Azman Shah highlighted that Northport has expanded its capacity to manage the higher cargo volumes. “Prior to the pandemic, we invested significantly in expanding our facilities, including increasing yard capacity and acquiring additional equipment. These upgrades have positioned us well to handle the surge in vessels and cargo.”
From January to August 2024, Northport handled 171 ad-hoc vessel calls and introduced 13 new services. The port also expects the arrival of 12 new E-RTGs (Electric Rubber-Tyred Gantry Cranes) in 2025. Additionally, the new Block K container yard, which became partially operational in August, has contributed to the increased cargo volumes.
Meanwhile, other ports such as Sapangar Bay Container Port (SBCP) in Sabah have also experienced heightened activity. SBCP, a key transshipment hub for the Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area, saw an 18% increase in container volumes compared to last year. Yard utilization at SBCP had reached nearly full capacity in early July but has since decreased to 64% due to operational adjustments and increased staffing to manage vessel backlogs. Improvements in cargo clearance and operational efficiency are ongoing to better align with global trade dynamics.
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