THE SUN, Thursday, December 19th, 2002 KLANG- In 1994, prior to the establishment of Westport in Port Klang, the gross capacity of Malaysian ports, in terms of container throughput, was two million boxes.

Today, Port Klang's capacity alone exceeds 6.5 million boxes, while in terms of volume, it is targeted to reach the 4.5 million mark.

The growth is dependent on the availability facilities and capacities, such as Westport's, to handle increased volumes.

Since it began operations, Wstport has recorded a steady growth in container traffic volume - 120,000 TEUs in 1997; 470,000 in 1998; 830,000 in 1999; and 1.03 million in 2000.

Westport's executive chairman Tan Sri G. Gnanalingam aid pot growth can be sustained because it is twice that of the country's GDP growth.

"The growth of Westport requires high productivity compared to competitive rate structures, fast turnaround of ships and a fast flow of the inventory of manufacturers."

Westport has grown from 1.45 million TEUs last year to 2.2 million in 2002 and I in position to achieve 2.5 million TEUs next year.

"Similarly, Port Klang too has grown and is targeted to reach 5 million TEUs next year," said Gnanalingam.

Westport is prepared to meet the growth by continuing to be supply driven.

"However, to achieve our targets, we need continued assistance, support and improvements from the various authorities, including Customs and Maritime departments," Gnanalingam said.