JOHOR BAHRU, April 7, 2024 – Johor Port Berhad (Johor Port), a member of the MMC Group and the leading port operator in Johor, has recognized the expertise of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) through various collaborative activities. Recently, Johor Port appointed UTM, via the Forensic Engineering Center and Uni-Technologies Sdn. Bhd., as a consultant to assess the condition of jetty and wharf structures at Johor Port, Pasir Gudang. This one-year project covers several key aspects, including the evaluation of jetty and wharf structures.

This appointment is a strategic move by Johor Port to ensure the reliability and safety of its maritime infrastructure for customers and to continue providing quality, safe facilities that comply with international service standards. With UTM’s collaboration, a premier institution in technology and engineering education, Johor Port aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the jetty and wharf assessments.

The expertise and experience of UTM’s specialists are expected to significantly contribute to Johor Port’s long-term development plan. This plan aims to provide infrastructure and services that meet international standards, adhering to guidelines from the Society of International Gas Tanker and Terminal Operators (SIGTTO) and the Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF). The impact on the safety and interests of stakeholders at Johor Port is anticipated to be substantial..

The consultancy project is led by Assoc. Prof. Ts Dr. Izni Syahrizal Ibrahim from the Forensic Engineering Centre (FEC), in collaboration with multiple faculties and research groups at UTM. This broad collaboration has developed a comprehensive framework aimed at ensuring the successful achievement of the project’s objectives. The outcomes will guide Johor Port in proactively implementing measures to maintain quality and internationally recognized services.

Previously, Johor Port signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with UTM, contributing to the UTM Endowment Fund to benefit students continuing their education at UTM. Johor Port has also been actively involved in knowledge-sharing events with the UTM community and has offered internship programs to train UTM students.

These strategic collaborations underscore the sustainable relationship between UTM as an educational hub and producer of professional individuals, and Johor Port as a globally recognized strategic industrial partner. Moreover, it highlights the synergy between academic expertise and industrial experience in addressing crucial challenges in infrastructure management and maintenance. This relationship also demonstrates Johor Port’s role as a living laboratory for UTM.

By utilizing the latest technology and methodologies, this project not only enhances the safety and efficiency of Johor Port operations but also serves as a model for proactive asset management. This is pivotal for the future infrastructure development in Malaysia and contributes to the sustainable growth and competitiveness of Malaysia’s maritime industry on the international stage.