LABUAN: Labuan's freight forwarders and port users are set to benefit from the implementation of the Labuan Smart Port solutions, which promises enhanced accuracy, transparency and improved business efficiency.
The Labuan Freight Forwarder Association (LFFA) expressed its support for the transformation of Labuan Port into a smart port, emphasising its commitment to collaborating closely with the port operator, Labuan Liberty Wharf for streamlined operations and improved trade facilitation.
Recently, Straits CommNet Solutions Sdn Bhd, an indirect subsidiary of Straits Energy Resources Bhd, had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Labuan port operator, Megah Port Management Sdn Bhd to initiate the Labuan Smart Port project.
The move aligns with the federal government's vision to transform Labuan into a smart city by 2030, focusing on innovative technologies for overall development and enhancing residents' quality of life.
Under the project, Straits Energy plans to invest RM3.6 million in the first two phases.
The first phase, scheduled to be completed within seven months, aims to optimise port operations and enhance efficiency, while the subsequent phase, also spanning seven months, will further refine the smart port infrastructure.
LFFA president, Prunella Phoong lauded the initiative, highlighting its potential to accelerate response times for goods in transit, reduce operational costs, minimise cargo handling duration, and streamline paperwork through the digital exchange of information.
She emphasised the importance of digitalisation, especially in light of the lessons learned during the Covid-19 lockdown measures in Labuan.
Phoong also highlighted the need for integration, suggesting that the Smart Port initiative could yield even greater benefits if integrated with the National Maritime Single Window, a system slated for implementation across all ports.
She stressed the importance of avoiding disparate systems that could counteract the expected advantages of such initiatives.
The Labuan Smart Port solutions project marks a significant step toward modernising Labuan's port facilities, and is anticipated to bring notable improvements for freight forwarders and port users, fostering a more efficient and streamlined trade environment in Labuan. – Bernama