“We want PTP to be the first green port in Malaysia which not only focuses on port-related operations but also gives priority to the environment within its operating base,” Lim told reporters during a visit to the port and a crane operations training centre, Siemens-MyPort Centre.

 

He said the port should only take in clean industries within the industrial zone, such as that involved in the manufacture of furniture and electrical and electronics items, and not allow cement, petroleum or chemical based companies to set up operations there.

 

However, he said, a petroleum bunkering service centre for vessels calling at the port would be allowed, but the centre should take into consideration the environment at the port when planning such a service.

 

Lim said apart from attracting clean industries to the port, PTP in its bid to become the region’s leading cargo transhipment hub, could also attract logistics and warehousing companies to make the port their operating base.

 

He also said the ministry wanted local transportation operators to improve services and facilities to attract more clients, especially multinational companies; otherwise they would source for an alternative from Singapore.

 

Lim said this was quite obvious in the chemical logistics industry where local operators lacked facilities and experience.