The Port of Tanjung Pelepas (PTP), a joint venture between MMC Group and APM Terminals, has successfully conducted its first methanol bunkering operation, refueling Maersk’s dual-fuel container vessel, Antonia Maersk. This achievement marks a significant step for PTP, showcasing its readiness to support alternative marine fuels and reinforcing its status as Malaysia’s premier transshipment hub.
A Milestone in Alternative Fuel Operations
PTP Chairman Tan Sri Che Khalib Mohamad Noh emphasized the importance of this accomplishment, describing it as a pivotal moment in the port’s evolution.
“This milestone underlines our commitment to providing world-class services to our customers while establishing PTP as a preferred port in the region,” he said. “The successful methanol bunkering operation not only demonstrates our readiness to handle alternative marine fuels but also sets the stage for future trials of innovative fuel solutions.”
PTP’s ability to refuel the Antonia Maersk is part of its broader strategy to align with the global shift toward sustainable shipping practices. Methanol as a marine fuel reduces sulfur and particulate emissions, helping operators like Maersk advance their decarbonization goals.
The Antonia Maersk is the third in a series of 18 large dual-fuel vessels commissioned by Maersk A/S, designed to operate on reduced-emission methanol. This ship-to-containership bunkering operation highlights PTP’s ability to handle emerging fuel solutions, further cementing its role as a leader in maritime decarbonization.
Collaboration Drives Success
Mark Hardiman, CEO of PTP, credited the operation’s success to the close collaboration between PTP, Maersk, and various Malaysian authorities, including the Marine Department, Johor Port Authority, and Maersk Oil Trading.
“In preparation, we conducted extensive tabletop exercises, workshops, and risk assessments, ensuring every aspect of the operation adhered to rigorous safety standards,” Hardiman explained. “This collaborative effort exemplifies how partnerships can drive infrastructure development and expand bunkering capabilities.”
Hardiman also highlighted the operation’s broader significance, saying, “This achievement underscores PTP’s commitment to safety, operational excellence, and customer satisfaction, enhancing our terminal’s efficiency and capacity to serve the global maritime community.”
Operational Excellence and Global Recognition
PTP’s achievement extends beyond methanol bunkering. The port maintained an impressive operational record in 2024, handling over one million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) per month for six consecutive months. PTP’s global standing has also been bolstered by its recognition as the fifth most efficient container port in the world, according to the 2023 Container Port Performance Index (CPPI) by The World Bank and S&P Global Market Intelligence. Additionally, the port ranks 15th globally in terms of volume throughput.
Malaysia’s Leading Transshipment Hub
With a capacity to handle 13 million TEUs annually, PTP is Malaysia’s busiest transshipment hub. It offers reliable, efficient, and technologically advanced services to major shipping lines and operators, connecting shippers in Malaysia and internationally to the global market.
The port’s commitment to innovation and sustainability aligns with its mission to remain at the forefront of maritime logistics. Its successful methanol bunkering operation for the Antonia Maersk signals a bright future for alternative fuel adoption in the region.
About Port of Tanjung Pelepas (PTP)
The Port of Tanjung Pelepas (PTP) is a leading transshipment hub in Malaysia, jointly owned by MMC Corporation Berhad (70%) and APM Terminals (30%). With the capacity to handle 13 million TEUs annually, PTP offers state-of-the-art services and extensive global connectivity. The port is dedicated to operational excellence, sustainability, and innovation, positioning itself as a key player in the global maritime industry.
Source PTP | TMR