As Malaysian manufacturers rely on an efficient port system to better compete globally, we commend the immediate efforts by Westports and Customs Department to ease the recent congestion in Port Klang. We view positively the completion of second gate consisting of 14 lanes in Westports which will be beneficial to shippers especially manufacturers practicing just-in-time inventory systems. More lanes would allow Westports to have ample capacity to cope with the growth of local import and export volume from shippers.

Besides reduction in manufacturing inventory costs, a more efficient port system reduces the export and import costs by eliminating exorbitant demurrage and detention charges imposed by shipping lines on hauliers which is then passed on to shippers. As mentioned by the Association of Malaysian Hauliers recently, an improved port system will increase the number of trips by hauliers and reduce unproductive time spent by lorry drivers waiting at the gate or outside the depot.

We look forward to continued collaborative efforts by all stakeholders to ensure Port Klang remains an important gateway for Malaysian exports as well as a growing centre for regional transhipment.