PTP breaks world record departing more than 19,000 TEUs container vessel

Pelabuhan Tanjung Pelepas Sdn Bhd, a member of MMC Group Bhd, became the first port operator to depart a container vessel with a final load of more than 19,000 20-foot equivalent units (TEUs).

In a statement yesterday, the port operator that manages Port of Tanjung Pelepas (PTP) in the western part of Johor, said Monaco Maersk, one of Maersk’s second-generation Triple-E vessels had recently left the port with a load of 19,284 TEUs.

This surpassed the volume brought by the MOL Tribune vessel last February.

“Efficient planning and execution of container operations and good optimisation of resources were identified as the reasons behind the feat,” the port operator said.

PTP chairman and MMC group MD Datuk Seri Che Khalib Mohamad Noh said the achievement mirrors the port’s commitment in providing prime service for its customers.

“As Malaysia’s leading port and logistics operator, we take pride in our ability to anticipate and understand the needs of our customers as well as our agility to adapt to the changes of the industries that we operate in, in order for us to stay ahead.

“This year, we will further strengthen our foundation and continue to optimise our cost for greater operational efficiency,” he said.

According to PTP CEO Marco Neelsen, the port received an immense commitment from its employees and stakeholders in delivering such services.

“Various continuous investment and improvement activities have been successfully executed and are currently taking place to ensure that we are able to achieve our targets set forth for this financial year, as well as to safeguard PTP’s position among the top transhipment hubs in the world,” he said.

Maersk Asia Pacific head of liner operations James Wroe said the record load was the result of an outstanding dedication and focus from PTP in setting the right operational conditions.“The record load for Maersk and PTP marks a sign of strategic progress.

“The record on most loaded containers during a port stay is one of many illustrations of the port’s commitment in continuing to move forward to become a company who is able to deliver the world-class services to their clients,” he said.

PTP recorded a total volume throughput of 9 million TEUs last year and is projected to handle 9.5 million TEUs in 2019.