Kuantan, Malaysia

Port Overview

Kuantan Port is located on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, about 25 km north of Kuantan city, facing the South China Sea. It is one of Malaysia’s major multipurpose ports and the principal gateway for trade on the east coast. Strategically positioned along the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, Kuantan Port plays a vital role in regional trade, especially with Asia-Pacific markets. The port has an annual container handling capacity of approximately 500,000 to 600,000 TEUs, ranking it among Malaysia’s key ports by throughput.

Facilities & Infrastructure

Kuantan Port features two main terminals: Kuantan Port 1 and the New Deep-Water Terminal (NDWT). Key facilities include container, bulk, and liquid cargo terminals, with dedicated berths for petrochemicals and dry bulk. Equipment includes container gantry cranes, rubber-tyred gantry cranes, reach stackers, and forklifts. NDWT operates with semi-automation and minimal manpower, supporting large vessels and efficient cargo handling. The port also offers a container freight station and extensive reefer points.

Container Terminals

Kuantan Port’s container terminal features three berths with a total length of 600 meters and a maximum draught of 12 meters. The annual container handling capacity is 500,000–600,000 TEUs. Automation is moderate, with six container cranes and ten rubber-tyred gantry cranes, but no full automation. The port is operated by Kuantan Port Consortium, with IJM Corporation as a major stakeholder. Expansion plans include deeper berths and larger storage areas.

Port Services

• Container handling: loading, unloading, and storage of containers with modern equipment and dedicated berths
• Cargo operations: management of dry bulk, liquid bulk, break bulk, and general cargo
• Ship services: marine services including pilotage, tug assistance, mooring, and fire and security support
• Warehousing: container yards, transit sheds, warehouses, and storage for dangerous goods and tank storage
• Customs: on-site customs clearance and digital clearance systems for efficient cargo processing

Global Connectivity

Kuantan Port, located on Malaysia’s east coast, is a deep-water, multipurpose hub facing the South China Sea. It connects directly to Port Klang via the East Coast Rail Link, enabling efficient cargo movement between the east and west coasts. Kuantan serves the East Coast Economic Region and acts as a gateway to major Asia-Pacific markets, especially China, with feeder links to Kemaman and Tok Bali ports. Key shipping routes include direct access to China, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.

Port Statistics

Kuantan Port, Malaysia – Key Statistics (2025):

• TEU Throughput: 500,000 TEUs annually
• World Ranking: Not in the global top 100 container ports
• Number of Berths: 3 container berths (total port has multiple berths including bulk and general cargo)
• Port Area: Two main terminals, including the New Deep-Water Terminal; container terminal quay length 600 meters
• Shipping Lines: Serviced by major regional and international shipping lines, including Maersk, MSC, and regional operators