GEORGE TOWN, January 13 — Penang Port is set to play a key role as the main maritime gateway for northern Malaysia under a 30-year master plan that will increase its handling capacity from 2.3 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) currently to 6.8 million by 2053.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook said the port will support the northern industrial base and cargo linked to southern Thailand, while Port Klang remains the nation’s primary gateway. Speaking at the 70th anniversary celebration of the Penang Port Commission.
Loke said operational efficiency at Penang Port will be enhanced, including extending the rail siding within the port by about 500 metres. The longer siding will allow a full train to enter the port without wagons extending onto public roads, reducing congestion and improving cargo movement.
Separately, Loke outlined plans to transform Penang’s historic seafront from Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) to Tanjung City Marina into a walkable commercial promenade. The redevelopment will feature cafes, food and beverage outlets, galleries and public spaces.
Allowing cruise passengers and visitors to walk directly from SPCT to Padang Kota Lama and beyond. He described SPCT as a “crown jewel”, noting it is Malaysia’s only cruise terminal located within a city and heritage zone.
The project will involve coordination between the federal and state governments, the Penang Port Commission, Penang Port Sdn Bhd and other agencies, with private sector participation encouraged. Loke stressed that no permanent structures will be built to preserve the heritage status.
And revealed that the former Menara Kastam building near Tanjung City Marina has been approved for redevelopment into a boutique hotel as part of the broader waterfront revitalisation plan.
