Raising decarbonisation efforts crucial for ports

By the Editorial Team · Friday, October 9, 2026

Malaysia’s Transport Minister Anthony Loke called on port operators to accelerate decarbonisation efforts, highlighting the Port of Tanjung Pelepas’ launch of 52 electric prime movers as a leading example. These actions are essential for meeting international ESG standards, fulfilling Malaysia’s commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050, and positioning the country’s ports as competitive hubs in the green maritime economy.

Malaysia’s Transport Minister Anthony Loke has urged port operators nationwide to intensify their decarbonisation efforts to meet international environmental standards and maintain competitiveness in the global maritime sector. Speaking at the launch of the Port of Tanjung Pelepas’ (PTP) fleet of electric prime movers on October 8, Loke highlighted PTP’s initiative to replace diesel-powered vehicles with electric alternatives as a model for others to follow.

Loke emphasized the growing importance of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria, noting that failure to adhere to these standards could impact the competitiveness of private port operators. “Other port operators also need to take similar steps as they have to comply with ESG requirements and decarbonisation goals,” he said.

The Transport Minister pointed out that these measures are crucial not only for enhancing environmental responsibility at Malaysian ports but also to fulfill the country’s international obligations. Malaysia is committed under the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) mandate to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping by around 2050. “We have about 24 years to achieve net-zero,” Loke stated, underscoring the urgency of the transition.

In addition to environmental benefits, Loke described the shift toward greener operations as a strategic opportunity. As the global shipping industry explores alternative fuels such as methanol, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and ammonia, Malaysia aims to position its ports as hubs for green bunkering. He revealed that the Transport Ministry is collaborating with the Australian government to develop a regulatory framework to support this transition, which will include new regulations, standard operating procedures, and safety protocols.

At the event, Loke lauded PTP’s rapid development, noting that it was the first container terminal in the country to handle over 14 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in a single year and has been recognized as one of the world’s fastest-growing ports. However, he stressed that “growth that leaves a heavier carbon footprint is not growth that Malaysia, or the world, will reward for long.”

The deployment of 52 electric prime movers at PTP marks a significant milestone in the port’s commitment to more sustainable operations, serving as an example of how business expansion and environmental sustainability can progress hand in hand.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.