PORT DICKSON, July 14 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the commencement of the Midport Smart AI Port project in Mukim Pasir Panjang marks another significant milestone in Negeri Sembilan’s development while reinforcing Malaysia’s position as a strategic maritime nation along the Straits of Malacca.
Anwar said the artificial intelligence (AI)-powered smart port is expected to transform the country’s logistics ecosystem by improving operational efficiency, accelerating trade activities and strengthening Malaysia’s competitiveness in the global maritime industry.
According to the Prime Minister, the project reflects the MADANI Government’s commitment to embracing technology and digitalisation as key drivers of sustainable economic growth amid an increasingly challenging global landscape.
He noted that at a time when the world continues to face geopolitical uncertainties and supply chain disruptions, Malaysia remains focused on enhancing its resilience through innovation and close collaboration between the government and the private sector.
“Malaysia must continue moving forward by strengthening our competitiveness through technology, digital transformation and strategic public-private partnerships. These efforts will enable the country to navigate global challenges while attracting high-value investments and creating quality employment opportunities, particularly for the younger generation,” he said.
Anwar added that the Midport Smart AI Port project is not merely about developing modern infrastructure but also about creating a future-ready economic ecosystem capable of supporting long-term national growth.
He stressed that the benefits of development must be distributed more equitably across the country, including areas that have traditionally been outside the mainstream of economic expansion.
“As such, we are elevating areas such as Linggi and Port Dickson into emerging economic hubs capable of competing at the regional level. This is part of our broader effort to ensure balanced and inclusive development,” he said.
The Prime Minister said the MADANI agenda goes beyond physical infrastructure, focusing instead on building a more prosperous, inclusive and resilient future for all Malaysians through strategic investments and sustainable economic planning.
— MINUTESMY
