Anwar says the AI-powered Midport project will strengthen Malaysia’s position as a digital and maritime hub by boosting trade capacity along the Strait of Malacca.
PORT DICKSON: The development of Midport here will strengthen Malaysia’s position as a digital and maritime hub, while simultaneously enhancing the country’s capacity to meet growing global trade demands, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said the artificial intelligence (AI)-powered port project is not merely a new infrastructure development; rather, it addresses the nation’s strategic needs as a maritime country situated along the Strait of Malacca.
“This port is no small project… The Strait of Malacca is among the world’s busiest shipping routes. If we simply watch ships pass by without capitalising on this strategic location, then we are not being smart.”
“Although Malaysia already possesses several major ports such as Penang Port, Port Klang and Port of Tanjung Pelepas, the demand for port and logistics services continues to rise. Therefore, we need to increase capacity to meet these requirements,” he said.
He was speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Midport project, which was also attended by Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun and Transport Minister Anthony Loke here today.
The Prime Minister said the project also demonstrates the effectiveness of public-private sector collaboration in realising strategic infrastructure development without burdening government finances.
He noted that the use of AI technology in port operations would enhance efficiency through real-time data analysis, accelerate vessel turnaround times, and reduce both operating costs and the carbon footprint compared to conventional ports.
“We welcomed the proposal for this project as it does not burden government funds. Moreover, the project is strategic in nature and involves significant investment; it employs a highly efficient AI-driven approach —saving time and reducing costs — which gives it an advantage over conventional ports.
“This approach also aligns with the national digital economy agenda, enhances efficiency and supports the aspirations of Malaysia Vision Valley 2.0 and the MADANI Economy,” he said.
Anwar said the port’s development marks a new chapter for the economic growth of Port Dickson and Linggi, areas that previously had not benefitted significantly from large-scale investment spillovers.
He noted that the project is expected to serve as a catalyst for industrial growth in Negeri Sembilan, while also placing the region on the map of world-class maritime development.
“Previously, Linggi lacked a key element to attract investor interest or stimulate more vigorous local activity. Now, however, thanks to our success, Linggi and Port Dickson are positioned on a development map that rivals international standards,” he said.
The Prime Minister said global geopolitical uncertainties including issues affecting the Panama Canal, the Suez Canal, and the Strait of Hormuz have heightened the importance of the Strait of Malacca as an international trade route.
“It is estimated that 20 to 25% of global maritime trade passes through the Strait of Malacca. This affords Malaysia a strategic advantage, and this port project is crucial for strengthening the nation’s economic competitiveness,” he said.
He also urged the companies involved in the port’s development to prioritise local human capital development by training more young people — particularly those from Port Dickson and Negeri Sembilan — in technology and port management.
“This is a major investment, and I want young people in Port Dickson and Negeri Sembilan to be given the opportunity to undergo training so that they can become part of the development of this smart port,” he said.
He added that the government would continue to focus on developing areas that had previously received less attention through high-impact infrastructure projects, ensuring more balanced economic growth across the country.
Meanwhile, Aminuddin said the project is a strategic joint venture between Menteri Besar Negeri Sembilan (Incorporated) or MBINS and Midports Holdings Sdn Bhd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Tanco Holdings Bhd, with an estimated development cost of RM3.4 billion.
He said the development covers about 72.84 hectares (180 acres) within the Kuala Sungai Linggi port limits in Mukim Pasir Panjang, with an implementation period of around three years for the first phase.
“A smart container port can leverage AI, automation, the Internet of Things, real-time data analytics, more efficient port traffic management systems, and technology-driven logistics operations,” he said.
Aminuddin noted that the port has the potential to reduce cargo handling times, enhance operational efficiency, bolster security, and strengthen the competitiveness of the national supply chain.
He added that this smart port project would also be integrated with the development plans for the Port Dickson Free Zone, spanning approximately 566.5 hectares (1,400 acres) at Ladang Sengkang, Mukim Pasir Panjang.
