List of Ports in Malaysia

Strategically following the South China Sea and the Strait of Malacca, Malaysia has grown to be among the most important marine nations in Southeast Asia. Thanks to their well-developed logistical infrastructure and global trade ties, the ports in Malaysia are especially significant for international trade, particularly in the shipping and logistics industries. For bulk goods, oil and gas exports, or container shipping, Malaysia provides a large network of seaports equipped with contemporary conveniences.

In this blog post, we provide a comprehensive Malaysia port list, explore the major ports in Malaysia, and look into the Malaysia ports map. Read on to learn more about the biggest port in Malaysia, minor ports, and much more.

Sea Ports in Malaysia

Johor

Key maritime state Johor in southern Malaysia boasts numerous important Malaysia ocean ports, including Johor Port and Tanjung Pelepas. Johor's strategic position close to Singapore makes it a major transshipment and container-handling base. The container ports in Malaysia, inside Johor, greatly influence national commerce volumes.

Kuching

Among the first ports in East Malaysia, Kuching Port is in Sarawak on the island of Borneo. It is a necessary component of the Malaysia sea ports list since it has riverine and seagoing capacity. Its position serves Sarawak's hinterlands effectively.

Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu's port, which serves Sabah's capital, is a major hub for East Malaysian freight movement. Though not among the biggest ports in Malaysia, it is strategically important in linking the Sabah area with foreign markets.

Port of Tanjung Pelepas

Considered the biggest port in Malaysia by volume, the Port of Tanjung Pelepas (PTP) is a world-class transshipment base. Among the most technologically developed container ports in Malaysia, it faces competition worldwide from ports in Singapore and Hong Kong. A gem in the Malaysia shipping ports map, it boasts innovative container handling equipment and deep-water docks.

Kunak

One little port in Sabah is Kunak. Although not a big facility, its relevance in regional trade and fishing sectors makes it included on the Malaysia seaports list.

Malacca Port

Once a historic maritime power, Malacca has an active harbor. Though it is presently classified as one of the minor ports in Malaysia, its strategic location along the Strait of Malacca contributes to its regional prominence.

Penang Port

Serving the northern states' manufacturing and industrial zones, Penang Port—which is in northern Peninsular Malaysia—is essential. It manages passenger, bulk, and container traffic mixed together. Penang Port shines on every Malaysia ports map for its long-standing legacy and multimodal capacity.

Port Klang

Consistently ranked among the top 15 busiest ports worldwide, Port Klang is the national load center for Malaysia. It is the principal port of export for Malaysia as well as the most crucial hub for ocean freight transportation. A major component of the Malaysia seaports map, it is close to Kuala Lumpur, the capital.

Kuantan Port

Kuantan Port, on Peninsular Malaysia's eastern coast, handles a range of goods, including iron ore, palm oil, and petrochemicals. Growing center in the network of Malaysia ocean ports, it benefits the East Coast Economic Region (ECER).

Johor Bahru

Usually connected with Johor Port, the port regions of Johore Bahru facilitate industrial and commercial maritime activities. Given the total number of ports in Malaysia, it is a component of the bigger ecosystem of Johor ports.

Labuan Port

Federal Territory Labuan lies off Sabah's coast. Labuan Port, which handles a significant amount of bulk and liquid cargo, is central to oil and gas logistics in the area. The Malaysia seaports list includes this port because of its vital relevance in the energy industry.

Miri Port

Miri Port, another East Malaysian port in northern Sarawak, assists regional business, especially in the oil and gas industry. Though it is regarded as a minor port in Malaysia, its importance to the local economy is rather clear.

Kemaman

Kemaman Port, located on the eastern coast, specializes in bulk cargo and services the petroleum industry. Although Kemaman Port is relatively smaller, it plays a crucial role in Malaysia’s maritime landscape.

Bintulu Port

Among the most specialized ports in Malaysia, Bintulu Port concentrates especially on handling liquefied natural gas (LNG). It is among the main drivers of Malaysia's energy exports and meets the needs of Sarawak's oil and gas sectors.

Lahad Datu

Located in Sabah, Lahad Datu Port is a regional port featuring capabilities for handling general cargo and palm oil. It is a growing player among the Malaysian seaports.

Kudat

A small but strategically placed port in Sabah, Kudat handles coastal shipping and small-scale cargo. It supports local industries and inter-island transport.

Sandakan Sea Port

For Sabah, Sandakan serves as a necessary seaport handling bulk and containerized goods. A major component of the Malaysia port list, it is among the busiest ports in East Malaysia.

Wharves

Malaysia's coastline is dotted with small-scale wharves that serve fishing villages and local industries. These are fundamental for coastal trade and comprise the larger system of Malaysian seaports.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the 7 Major Ports in Malaysia?

The major ports in Malaysia include:

• Port Klang
• Port of Tanjung Pelepas
• Penang Port
• Kuantan Port
• Bintulu Port
• Johor Port
• Sandakan Sea Port

These ports handle the majority of Malaysia’s maritime trade and appear prominently on the Malaysia ports map.

What Is the Largest Malaysian Port?

The biggest port in Malaysia is Port Klang in terms of total cargo throughput. The Port of Tanjung Pelepas is a close second. Crucially for international trade channels, both act as regional transshipment centers.

What Is the Port of Export in Malaysia?

Port Klang, the main port of export in Malaysia, handles a vast range of products, including electronics, rubber, palm oil, and machinery. Because of its infrastructure and excellent connection, this port also provides a hub for ocean freight forwarders.

What Are the Minor Ports in Malaysia?

Some of the minor ports in Malaysia include:

• Malacca Port
• Kudat Port
• Kunak Port
• Kemaman Port
• Miri Port
• Lahad Datu Port

Though smaller in size and scope, these ports serve vital roles in supporting regional economies and niche industries.
 

OPCA Members: Trusted Partners in Malaysian Port Logistics

Malaysia freight forwarders recognized by the Overseas Project Cargo Association (OPCA) offer outstanding experiences for companies wishing to collaborate with trustworthy logistics providers in Malaysia. These members have handled all kinds of cargo, including containerized goods, heavy-lift logistics, and project shipments.

OPCA freight forwarders guarantee seamless coordination, compliance, and competitive services in the worldwide supply chain via presence at key Malaysian seaports like Port Klang, Penang Port, and Kuantan Port.