SHAH ALAM, Mar 30 — A prolonged conflict in West Asia could disrupt global shipping routes and drive up logistics costs, although the overall impact on Port Klang is expected to remain minimal.
Port Klang Authority general manager Datuk Subramaniam Karuppiah said the port remains resilient as a large share of its cargo involves intra-Asia trade, which is less exposed to developments in the Middle East.
However, he noted that an extended conflict could still reshape regional shipping patterns, with Middle East-bound cargo potentially bypassing the Persian Gulf in favour of ports in the Red Sea or Oman.
“There will be issues on container turnaround time due to longer transit periods over land to the Gulf countries, which will result in a shortage of containers.
“However, the impact on Port Klang is expected to be relatively minimal as a significant portion of the cargo handled is intra-Asia trade, which is generally less affected,” he told Media Selangor.
Subramaniam added that operations at Port Klang are also currently stable, with no immediate signs of congestion despite the ongoing geopolitical tensions.
“Terminal activities at both Westports and Northport are operating within manageable capacity levels.”
Regional tensions have escalated since the United States (US) and Israel launched joint attacks on Iran on February 28, with its impact being felt globally.
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, along with attacks on critical infrastructure, has disrupted global oil market stability and regional energy security — including in Southeast Asia — while driving up freight rates and logistics costs, and putting pressure on global trade flows.
On March 26, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that Iran has allowed Malaysian ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, facilitating the movement of oil tankers and the safe return of stranded Malaysian workers.
Despite these challenges, Subramaniam said that Port Klang has sufficient capacity and operational resilience to manage potential changes in cargo flows.
Terminal operators have progressively strengthened their capabilities through capacity expansion, operational optimisation, and digitalisation efforts.
Measures to mitigate congestion risks include closer coordination with shipping lines, improved yard planning, and efforts to shorten cargo dwell times through more efficient container clearance processes.
“These measures are complemented by broader system improvements, including digital platforms that enhance visibility and efficiency across the logistics chain,” he said.
A prolonged crisis could also potentially benefit Port Klang, particularly in transhipment activities, as shipping lines optimise their routes to maintain network efficiency.
“Overall, the port remains resilient, with stakeholders continuing to monitor developments closely to ensure smooth and efficient operations,” Subramaniam said.
Previously, on March 16, Transport Minister Anthony Loke urged all ports in Malaysia to be prepared to handle additional containers that may be delayed due to geopolitical tensions in West Asia.
He said that proactive measures must be taken to prevent disruptions or congestion, including in Port Klang.
