KLANG, Sept 27 — Port infrastructure and ecosystems must be continuously streamlined nationwide to reduce congestion, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said ports have a critical role in driving the nation’s economic growth, in line with the aim to make Malaysia a transport hub for various industries through increased investment and higher trade.
Anwar revealed that matters related to increasing port and transport capacity, including at Port Klang’s Westports, have been brought up several times in Cabinet meetings.
“On the part of the government, we have asked for every related matter to be simplified and expedited as we don’t want the country to fall behind due to administrative matters,” he said at the groundbreaking ceremony for Westports 2 here today.
Also present were Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari, Transport Minister Anthony Loke, Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz, and Westports Malaysia executive chairman Datuk Ruben Emir Gnanalingam Abdullah.
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A cargo ship laden with containers seen at Port Klang’s CT9 Terminal on September 27, 2024. — Picture by AHMAD ZAKKI JILAN/MEDIA SELANGOR[/caption]
Anwar, who is also finance minister, said the launch of Westports 2 is a step in the right direction in reducing congestion in Port Klang, a problem that also plagues Penang Port and Port of Tanjung Pelepas. He said Westports’ capability as a global maritime and logistics hub, recognised by the world, will keep growing through the opening of new container terminals at Westports 2 later.
“In 1994, as the finance minister at the time, I visited Westports to see the initial construction work of this port, and I could see its ability and potential as an important port. I think the need to expedite the opening of this new infrastructure project cannot be disputed, and the government will give full support to ensure this port expansion project is successful,” he said.
Regarding the frequent reports of accidents involving lorries on the Port Klang route, Anwar said the government has agreed to prioritise road widening in development planning next year. He said the matter would be discussed further with Amirudin and Loke.
The Prime Minister also urged the port management to increase workers’ wages in line with the increase in productivity and company finances.
Anwar said he also wants matters related to the welfare of workers, such as housing and their children’s education, to be given priority as the success of the company is closely related to the productivity and hard work of employees.
“Relatively, workers are given good treatment, but I would like to urge companies with high productivity to increase workers’ wages as well as other benefits such as schooling and housing,” he added.
— Bernama
