Malaysia’s Port Klang grapples with congestion as vessels queue up to nine hours to dock

Port Klang, a crucial hub in global maritime trade, is confronting significant challenges in vessel management. With berthing delays averaging 9.3 hours at Westport and 1.9 hours at Northport as of April 2024, the port is grappling with vessel bunching triggered by a surge in arrivals. 

This congestion is exacerbated by the effects of the Red Sea crisis, compelling shipping companies to alter routes, prolonging voyages, and necessitating the prioritization of certain port calls.

The shift in shipping routes, prompted by the closure of the Suez Canal, has compelled vessels to traverse longer distances, leading to adjustments in scheduling and the selective omission of port stops to maintain timelines. Consequently, Port Klang is witnessing a surge in container discharges aimed at facilitating the timely transfer of goods to regional ports. 

To address this congestion, port authorities and terminal operators are collaborating on measures to streamline operations. These initiatives include prioritizing vessels carrying export and transhipment containers, optimizing quay crane utilization, and expediting loading and unloading processes.

Despite these efforts, Port Klang has experienced a five per cent decline in vessel calls from January – April compared to 2023, totalling 4,575 vessels in 2024.