Port Klang has been affected by heavy rainfall causing severe flooding. As a result, port and logistics operations have been adversely affected.
Northport, Westports, and Southport terminals have all been affected by flash flooding. Worsening the situation, many port and logistics operations staff are unable to report to work due to travel difficulties.
This has caused the movement of containers and cargo to and from the port to be delayed for the next few days. Furthermore, vessel berthing will also be delayed due to the inclement weather which has caused a backlog of vessels at the outer anchorage with many more ships expected to arrive over the next few days.
“Port Klang Authority is working closely with the port and logistics industry platers to optimise the available resources and do everything possible to ensure the continuance of port and logistics operations. Priority will be given to deliveries of essential goods particularly food items, medical supplies and refrigerated goods,” said the port authority in a statement.
“Terminal operators, forwarding agents, haulier companies and goods clearing government agencies are urged to come together during these difficult times to assist and ensure goods are able to reach the markets and minimise the despair faced by the public who are already facing the wrath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Nevertheless, we appeal to the public to exercise patience while we navigate through this difficult period, and we are confident that together we will overcome these challenges.”
The port has called for a united show of resilience and compassion, urging the port and logistics community to extend aid to local communities who are also being affected by the weather.
Previously, Yang Ming Marine Transport Corp. (Yang Ming) has coordinated with the Taiwan Foundation International Pte, Ltd and other Malaysian investors to set up a joint venture depot company named Jambatan Merah Formosa Depot Sdn. Bhd at Port Klang.
The carrier said the new company will provide inland empty container depot and container maintenance and repair services.
Malaysia is one of largest economies in ASEAN, the carrier continued. According to an International Monetary Fund (IMF) report released in June, Malaysia’s GDP is projected to contract by 3.8% this year due to COVID-19, however, but return to pre-COVID-19 growth levels of 6.3% in 2021.
