Johor Port eyes Belawan-Johor corridor to deepen Malaysia-Indonesia connectivity

Johor Port Bhd, a subsidiary of MMC Group, is actively pursuing a partnership with PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Persero) Regional 1 Belawan to establish a stronger maritime trade corridor linking north Sumatra's Belawan and Johor. This proposed corridor aims to streamline cargo transportation, expand market access, and bolster Malaysia-Indonesia trade ties and supply chain robustness, according to a Johor Port statement.

CEO Md Derick Basir emphasized that the collaboration transcends merely connecting two ports; it's about merging businesses and markets, fostering more efficient trade pathways, and reinforcing regional supply chains. He stated that working closely with Pelindo and regional industry partners is crucial to identifying lucrative trade prospects that benefit businesses in both northern Sumatra and Johor.

The initiative emerged from a visit by Johor Port to Belawan Port in September 2026, during the Indonesia–Malaysia–Thailand Growth Triangle 2026 Programme in Medan. The delegation included Jonedi Ramli, Regional 1, Persero executive director, Yusrizal, Pelindo Regional 1 Belawan executive general manager, Kota Dumai Zulfan Ismaini, head of the Kota Dumai KADIN, Raj Nadarajan, Johor Port's head of the container commercial department, and Hanafi Ginting, senior manager (transactions) at BRI Regional Office Medan.

Belawan Port serves as the primary entry point to northern Sumatra's interior, while Johor Port provides connectivity to the wider Malaysian market and established cross-Asia shipping networks. The proposed link will cater to various trade domains, encompassing manufacturing, consumer goods, industrial cargo, and bulk commodities. It also aligns with Johor Port's strategy to broaden its commercial footprint beyond its conventional geographic scope.

Both entities plan to engage further with shipping lines, cargo owners, and logistics providers to determine optimal cargo flows and establish a commercially viable service structure. In 2025, Johor Port achieved its highest container throughput ever, handling 1.08 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs). The port is currently the globe's largest single edible oil terminal and a vital regional hub for London Metal Exchange cargoes, fertilizers, cement, rice, and cocoa.