Strategic alliance to revolutionize maritime and aquaculture industry in the region
The Negeri Sembilan government, in partnership with Malaysia listed company Tanco Holdings Berhad, have announced the signing of a joint venture agreement for the development of Malaysia’s first smart artificial intelligence (AI) container port at Dickson Bay, Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan of Malaysia.
This pioneer project, which has received a nod from the Ministry of Transport of Malaysia, marks a significant milestone in Negeri Sembilan’s strategic development in support of the nation’s economic growth.
Midports Holdings Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Tanco (MHSB) and Menteri Besar Negeri Sembilan (Pemerbadanan) (MBINS), have entered into a joint venture (JV) to develop the proposed smart AI container port that includes an additional 33.66 hectares (83.19 acres) of seabed land submerged off Dickson Bay, District of Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan.
Both entities will set up a joint venture company (JVC), which will serve as the development backbone of the project, driving forward the construction and future operation
of the smart AI container port.
Negeri Sembilan’s Menteri Besar Aminuddin Harun said, this growth in infrastructure will generate significant revenue for Negeri Sembilan and the nation, reinforcing Malaysia’s position in international trade and establishing the region as a key economic hub. He further emphasized the project’s significance in attracting investment and technology.
“The establishment of this port is a clear signal to the world that we are ready to enable the future of trade and technology, This venture is expected to attract more Foreign Direct Investment that will positively contribute to gross domestic product (GDP) and foster the growth of high-tech technology factories, further solidifying Malaysia’s position as a key player in the global economy,” he added.
Boost to the maritime and aquaculture industry in the region:
The proposed smart AI container port will be supported by a 480-acre landbank owned by Tanco, The site is strategically located at the midway of the Straits of Malacca and features a natural deep water access with more than 21 meters in depth that is 1.8km from the shoreline, and is capable of accommodating the largest container ships globally. Straits of Malacca is one of the busiest straits in the world, and positions Negeri Sembilan to capitalize on this bustling maritime route. It is designed to leverage cutting-edge technologies that will enable automated and efficient container handling, predictive maintenance, and enhanced security measures, setting new standards in operational efficiency and environmental sustainability.
“This port in Port Dickson is a testament to our commitment to innovation and sustainability. The integration of advanced AI and smart technologies will enhance our logistics capabilities and ecosystem and position Malaysia as a leader in automated and sustainable port operations,” said Andrew Tan Juan Suan, Group Managing Director of Tanco Holdings.
The smart AI container port is expected to offer logistical advantages by significantly reducing transportation costs for gateway containers for businesses currently dependent on distant ports, and enhancing speed and efficiency for transshipment containers. This strategic proximity is also expected to decrease carbon emissions, demonstrating Tanco’s contribution to sustainable practices.
“We have started our groundwork and invited foreign industrialists to the smart AI container port location. These industrialists have expressed positive feedback and interest for the potential development of new industrial park(s) in close proximity to the smart AI container port in order to establish a more conducive trade and logistic ecosystem to accelerate the state’s industrialization plans,” he said.
