In developing PTP, a greenfield port, we have had to look far and wide to source and develop the best facilities. In this effort, we have found that learning from experiences of other ports, Malaysian port primarily, has benefited us.

We have been able to take the best elements of port development and taking into account valuable client feedback, we have customised our port to cater to increasingly demanding requirements for our customers.

In this process, we have found many possible areas of cooperation Malaysian ports can take in the creation of a strategic alliance. At the outset, we would like to state that at the fast pace shipping lines are merging, ports are becoming increasingly hard-pressed to meet their demands.

Strategic alliances through various means are now necessary and can bring forth increased business and trade flows between ports.

On of the ways that we can look towards to is by offering cost-competitive services with high productivity and efficiency. Management cooperation in running terminals can be shared for maximum utilisation and benefits.

Another area is through resource sharing. It can be done either by setting up training programmes or increasing exchange of staff for attachments. Terminal equipment can be procured together to enable ports to leverage for better prices.

This can provide personnel with a wider outlook of port operations. Those who are through the attachments will be able to see beyond their normal scope of daily work and duties.

It has been a pleasure sharing my ideas and vision for the industry in this five-part series. I would welcome ideas and comments on what has been discussed or opportunities for cooperation with PTP.

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