The Malaysian Port of Tanjung Pelepas (PTP) has ordered 58 electric rubber-tyred gantry (RTG) cranes from Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industry (ZPMC).

PTP, a joint venture between APM Terminals and MMC Group, is the first Malaysian container terminal to surpass the 12 million TEU mark in on year.

PTP chairman Tan Sri Che Khalib Mohamad Noh told local media the contract with ZPMC is key to the expansion strategy of the port.

“This strategic move is a testament to PTP’s ongoing commitment to providing premier port services, further solidifying our position as Malaysia’s leading transshipment hub and a key player in the regional maritime industry,” the port says in a statement. 

“The purchase of these advanced cranes, which are automation-ready and can be retrofitted to be fully automated in the future, shall upgrade PTP’s current RTG fleet and significantly boost PTP’s handling capabilities, ensuring that PTP continues to deliver exceptional service standards to customers while maintaining the highest levels of safety.”

The cranes are scheduled for delivery between March and July 2026 with the agreement having been signed in early February.

Meanwhile, the port took delivery of eight electric RTGs last week which was part of a procurement agreement signed with Mitsui E&S Co., Ltd. in November 2022. 

PTP says the RTGs were delivered ahead of schedule and mark the fourth batch of cranes ordered under the agreement.

“The integration of the e-RTG cranes as part of the key terminal asset aligns with PTP’s sustainability commitments and ESG journey, reinforcing our dedication to safe and eco-efficient port operations,” the port states.