Westports handled 5.57 million TEUs in first half of 2025

KUALA LUMPUR, 25 JULY 2026 —

Westports Holdings Bhd said it handled 5.57 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) of containers in the six months to June 30, 2025, up 4.3% from 5.34 million TEUs in the same period last year.

The company, which operates Malaysia’s largest private port in Klang, reported total revenue of RM1.31 billion for the first half of 2025. Intra-Asia trade remained the key driver, accounting for 61% of total container volume. The conventional segment processed 5.71 million metric tonnes of bulk cargo, with dry bulk showing notable growth.

Westports operates 24 hours a day with a workforce of 5,600 employees. Labour costs rose by 8%, reflecting higher operational expenses. Under an extended supplemental privatisation agreement that took effect on September 1, 2024, the company increased payments to the port authority. The cash flow statement also showed higher service concession-related assets and obligations. Profit after tax for the period reached RM454 million.

Datuk Ruben Emir Gnanalingam, Executive Chairman of Westports, said the U.S. economy remained resilient despite trade tariffs, while regional demand for container handling stayed strong due to restructuring in container shipping alliances. He added that Westports expects continued demand for terminal handling services when the expanded CT10 terminal becomes operational in 2028.

Malaysia Market Impact Westports’ performance reflects broader trends in Malaysia’s port sector, where private operators are expanding capacity to meet growing regional trade. The strong intra-Asia trade lane, which dominates Westports’ volume, aligns with Malaysia’s role as a key transshipment hub in Southeast Asia. The increase in bulk cargo throughput, particularly dry bulk, suggests sustained activity in commodities such as coal and grains.

The 8% rise in labour costs may pressure margins, though higher container volumes and revenue growth could offset this. The RM454 million profit after tax indicates financial resilience, supported by long-term agreements with port authorities.

Sector and Company Specifics Westports operates under a privatised model with a concession agreement that includes capacity expansion commitments. The upcoming CT10 terminal, scheduled for completion in 2028, is expected to add significant handling capacity. The company’s focus on intra-Asia trade and bulk cargo diversification positions it to benefit from regional supply chain shifts.

The extended privatisation agreement, effective since September 2024, formalises higher payments to the port authority, reflecting the government’s long-term strategy to balance private investment with public revenue.

Outlook Westports anticipates continued demand for container handling services, driven by global trade dynamics and shipping alliance restructuring. The commissioning of CT10 in 2028 is expected to further enhance capacity and competitiveness. However, rising operational costs and concession obligations remain key considerations for future profitability.

Details on future financial guidance or dividend policy were not disclosed. The company’s next update is expected with its full-year 2025 results.

Related: Westports