ASEAN Ports Association Malaysia (MAPA)

KUCHING, Jan 11 (Bernama) — The Tanjung Manis Integrated Port is to become the primary import and export gateway for Sarawak central region when it begins full operations by next year.

The port, a subsidiary of Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC) and appointed by Rajang Port Authority as its port operator in Tanjung Manis new township, had shown encouraging performance since commencing operations in July last year.

As at October 2009, it had received 11 vessels and handled 2,383 TEUs (twenty equivalent units) containers, said STIDC general manager and Tanjung Manis Integrated Port chairman Datuk Len Talif Salleh in the latest issue of Perkasa, the bi-monthly newsletter published by the corporation.

Currently, the port accesssible to 20,000 GRT (gross register tonnage) vessels, has the capacity to handle up to 200,000 tonnes of general cargo and 25,000 TEUs containers a year.

He said the existing 203-metre wharf would be extended by 200 metres to enable the port to handle an anual capacity of 200,000 TEUs of containers and six million tonnes of general cargo by next year.

When fully operational, the port is expected to be equipped with state-of-the-art cargo-handling facilities such as quay cranes, mobile harbour cranes, rubber-type gantry cranes and reach stackers, said Len.

He said the port was envisaged to play a pivotal role in the shipping industry with the completion of the Sibu-Tanjung Manis road by this year and support the various industries in the hinterland, particularly the Tanjung Manis Halal Hub and other projects planned under the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE).

“With better facilities and a team of dedicated and experienced workforce, Tanjung Manis port promises efficient services apart from reducing vessel turnaround time due to its closeness to the sea,” he said.

Len said the port’s strategic location and natural deep water complemented its role as the central region’s transshipment hub.

Meanwhile, the 77,000-hectare Tanjung Manis Halal Hub is expected to attract at least RM9 billion worth of investments for upstream and downstream halal food processing activities, which will create about 10,000 jobs, besides other economic spin-offs.

“The success of Westport is a true reflection of the great team effort put forth by the workforce that we have today” enthuses Westports Malaysia’s executive Chairman, Tan Sri G. Gnanalingam.

Making a reference to The Taj Mahal, the Executive Chairman says, ”Many people assume that this magnificent monument was built by the Emperor Shah Jahan, but not many realize the monument has been brought to form by the pool of highly skilled craftsmen and dedicated workers. That is why I believe that if Westports has carved a name for itself in the international port arena, then it is solely because of the energy that is unleashed by the workers who have relentless worked towards a common goal of positioning Westports Malaysia as a gateway and transshipment hub”.

In return, the management has offered excellent career advancement opportunity and developed an enriching company culture that provides both professional and personal rewards. Westports unique company culture has been the driving force in attracting and retaining some of the brightest and most dedicated professionals in its pool of workforce.

In its efforts to boost staff development and job satisfaction, various training programs have been designed. Besides in-house trainings, staff is sent for overseas port visits such as to Hong King International Terminals, Le Harve and Felixstowe. These efforts have, as a matter of fact, kept staff motivation high and in turn increased efficiency and productivity of the port.

Aside from investing in a productive and committed workforce, the port has also invested heavily in the latest terminal equipment and introduced new work practices that have resulted in the port’s improved efficiency and throughput. The most recent accomplishments for the port have been the clocking of 35 moves per hour on ship to shore productivity. Landside activity has also improved tremendously, with its hauliers turnaround time clocking an average of 14 minutes.

The timely expansion plan that has been carried out to cater for looming unprecedented boom in the industry is expected to further boost the port’s container volume. It has been projected with the completion of its latest expansion of CT (Container Terminal) 4 that consists of 600 meters wharf extension together with a 60 acres yard area, the port would have an additional capacity of 1 million TEUs. CT4 is equipped with world-class facilities and services, which will enable more vessels of the next generation to make Westports as its preferred port of call. With its latest acquisition of two new Super Post-Panamax Twin Lifters and its natural alongside draft of 15.5 meters, Westports will no doubt be able to meet the changing needs of the customers.

Westports was among the first port in Malaysia introduced and incorporate cutting-edge IT solutions in the national port business to enhance efficiency. Being a customer-oriented port, it is also the pioneer port in the country in setting up a Call Center. Well-known for its unconventional methods, Westports Malaysia has also made headlines with its unique “Garden Port”. Westports beautifully landscaped areas dotted with blossoms of myriad hues and cascading waterfalls add charm, beauty and tranquility, all of which aim to provide a better work environment for staff.

Westports plays a vital role in contributing to the success of Malaysia’s economy. To maintain this momentum, it continues to seek ways in which it could enhance its services and maintain its competitiveness, the secret of Westports success lies in its world-class terminal facilities, highly skilled workforce, and the successful collaborations and partnerships it has made with employees, customers and stakeholders. Westports Malaysia is set to perform exceptionally and achieve double-digit growth for many years to come.

By: Westports Malaysia Bhd.