Johor:Johor Port Bhd, part of the MMC Group, is exploring a strategic partnership with PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Persero) Regional 1 Belawan to establish a stronger maritime trade corridor linking Belawan in north Sumatra and Johor.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the proposed Belawan-Johor trade corridor aims to facilitate seamless cargo movement, enhance market access, and strengthen trade connections and supply chain resilience between Malaysia and Indonesia.
Johor Port's chief executive officer, Md Derick Basir, emphasized that the initiative goes beyond connecting the two ports. It is about creating more efficient trade pathways and strengthening regional supply chains by bringing businesses and markets closer.
The collaboration with Pelindo and regional industry stakeholders is intended to identify practical trade opportunities that provide value to businesses in both northern Sumatra and Johor. This move is seen as a strategic effort to boost regional economic integration.
Discussions on this initiative took place during Johor Port's visit to Belawan Port in early September 2026, coinciding with the Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle 2026 Programme in Medan. Key attendees included PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Persero) executive director Jonedi Ramli, Pelindo Regional 1 Belawan executive general manager Yusrizal, and other industry leaders.
Belawan Port serves as the primary gateway to northern Sumatra's hinterland, while Johor Port provides connectivity to the Malaysian market and established intra-Asia shipping networks. The proposed corridor is expected to support a wide range of trade sectors, including manufacturing and bulk commodities, aligning with Johor Port's strategy to expand its commercial influence.
Johor Port, which operates extensive facilities and recorded its highest-ever container throughput of 1.08 million TEUs in 2025, remains a key regional hub for various commodities. The port is committed to ongoing discussions with shipping lines, cargo owners, and logistics providers to establish a commercially viable service framework.