Cargo News Asia reports that Johor Port, on the eastern side of Johor in Malaysia, is planning to undertake a major modernisation effort.
The port is a key gateway port for the south of Malaysia and has developed into one of the most successful multi-purpose port facilities in Malaysia.
Mohd Sidik Shaik Osman, chairman of Johor Port said: "Industries in Pasir Gudang are growing to the extent that it they have now expanded to the Tanjung Langsat industrial area. Therefore Johor Port needs to gear itself to cater for the growth and expansion of these industries so as to ensure that the port remains as a vibrant gateway for the southern region of Malaysia".
"In order to cater to the needs of the surrounding industries, we have embarked on a five-year business and port expansion plan, which will see significant redevelopment and restructuring of the port infrastructure taking place; and major upgrades to the port's equipment and facilities," Sidik said.
"Our aim is to be able to serve our customers in a more efficient and cost effective manner so that we remain as a competitive port in the region," he added.
Under the five-year expansion plan, the port will be modernised in phases.
"Under the expansion plan, we will also be replacing some of the old and aging cranes and port equipment, we will repair some of the wharfs structures, we will also build four new additional berths dedicated for the handling of liquid cargo, and we will dredge the port waterfront.
"This year alone, we will be spending something to the tune of US$32 million," he told Cargo News Asia.
