Southpoint, a port facility operated by Northport (Malaysia) Bhd (Northport), a member of MMC Group, has achieved a remarkable milestone by setting a new record for the highest monthly cargo handling volume. In May 2024, Southpoint handled a total of 297,337 Metric Tons (MT) of cargo, marking a significant growth of 59.1% compared to the same month last year. This performance surpasses the previous record of 289,826 MT set in August 2001.

 “Southpoint’s remarkable achievement in May 2024 is a testament to our commitment to enhancing operational efficiency and expanding our service offerings. The significant increase in cargo handling volumes, particularly in the dry bulk segment, highlights the effectiveness of our strategic initiatives, including the establishment of the Biomass Logistics Hub at Southpoint,” said Dato’ Azman Shah Mohd Yusof, Chief Executive Officer of Northport.

 Since the takeover of Northport in January 2016 by MMC Corporation Berhad, the Company has embarked on the “Reinventing Northport” initiative. As part of this strategic initiative, the Company made a major move with the establishment of the Biomass Logistics Hub at Southpoint in April 2018, a strategic initiative to boost the biomass industry while championing environmental stewardship in Malaysia. The hub represents a comprehensive strategy to optimize resource utilization and foster industry collaboration. The growth in biomass handling reflects Southpoint’s success in tapping into the burgeoning biomass industry, driving both environmental sustainability and economic resilience in the region.

 Established over a century ago as Port Swettenham, Southpoint has evolved significantly since its inception on 15 September 1901. Initially administered by Malayan Railways Ltd during British rule, Southpoint has served as a national gateway, offering diverse port facilities and services for various cargo types, including dry bulk, breakbulk and liquid bulk. Today, Southpoint boasts eight berths, from Berth 1 to Berth 7A, with varying depths to accommodate ocean-going vessels and coastal ships. The port also features eight warehouses and multipurpose open yards with a total space of 53,000 square meters, supporting its robust cargo handling operations. Southpoint’s success today is part of its ongoing transformation and revitalization efforts aimed at enhancing its capabilities and expanding its regional trade reach.