The growth of seaports in Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia for 2007–2011

• Ports in Malaysia are fast growing ports.
• Statistical data for 2007–2011 are discussed.
• Container throughput, cargo throughput and ships call increase.
• PTP and Port Klang grow 8.64% and 11.63% annually.

Malaysia is a maritime country located at one of the important maritime crossroads of the world, serving high maritime trade volume yearly. Although the shipping activities can bring a huge benefit to the country's economic growth, the statistical data of the growth of seaports in both the Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia are hardly found. This study discussed the main ports in Malaysia including Port Klang (Northport, South Port and Westports), Port of Tanjung Pelepas, Johor Port, Penang Port and Bintulu Port. This research aims to collect and analyse the ports traffic data such as container throughput, cargo throughput and ships call of the main ports to find out the fast growing ports in the country. Based on the result analysis, the authors concluded that Port of Tanjung Pelepas and Port Klang in particular Westports gained a healthy growth over the years. These two ports are experiencing growing demand in container trade with an average annual growth rate of 8.64% and 11.63% respectively. Further researches on ship's propeller wash are recommended to be conducted in these two ports in order to reduce the risk of seabed scouring.