Penang’s ambition to strengthen its position in the regional blue economy has taken a major step forward with the collaboration between Asia Ocean Resources Sdn Bhd (AORSB) and Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPSB). The signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) at the Butterworth Deep Water Wharves (BDWW) marks an important industrial milestone[1] and reflects Penang’s broader vision under Penang2030 to build a diversified, innovation-driven, and sustainable economy. By positioning Penang Port as a strategic hub for high-value seafood supply chains, the initiative not only modernises key industries and enhances food security but also fosters an ecosystem that nurtures specialised, niche business services and innovative practices; key objectives under Penang2030 for a diversified and future-ready economy.
Tuna was chosen as a strategic focus due to its high global demand and premium value in international markets, particularly in Europe, the United States, and Japan. The tuna industry is a critical segment of the blue economy, offering significant opportunities for export growth, value addition, and technological innovation in fisheries. By investing in premium-grade tuna production and processing, Penang can enhance its competitive edge in the global seafood sector while promoting sustainable practices and optimising supply chain efficiency.
A highlight of the ceremony was the landing of -60°C super-frozen tuna for export to global markets. Under the MoA, AORSB will invest RM19 million to develop a deep-freeze warehouse and a tuna skid tank on a 29-year lease at BDWW. Datuk Azman Shah Mohd Yusof, chief executive of PPSB, said the project represents a long-term effort to establish facilities that meet stringent European Union (EU) standards, enabling premium-quality tuna from regional waters to access global markets in Europe and the United States. [2]
The initiative is expected to transform Penang Port into a strategic logistics hub for tuna landing and processing, generate skilled employment, stimulate supporting industries, and boost export value. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi noted that the launch of the premium tuna brand ‘Shinkai Origin’ aligns with the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), supporting food security, innovation, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), and Malaysia’s broader ambitions in the blue economy. [3]
This partnership demonstrates how Penang is embracing high-value, technology-driven opportunities within the blue economy. Beyond enhancing infrastructure and meeting EU standards, the project strengthens export capabilities and reinforces Penang Port’s role in global supply chains. These outcomes directly support Penang2030’s vision of a liveable, resilient, and economically dynamic state, highlighting the government’s commitment to sustainable development and long-term economic growth.
Footnotes
[1] Tanushalini, M. (2025). Penang boosts tuna industry through MoA and premium brand launch. Bulletin Mutiara, September 16. ↩︎
[2] See Footnote 1. ↩︎
[3] See Footnote 1. ↩︎