BATU KAWAN (May 17): International express service provider DHL Express has relocated its Prai service centre to a larger, RM13 million facility at the Batu Kawan Industrial Park here to cater to bigger demand for international shipping by businesses in the northern states.

DHL Express Malaysia and Brunei managing director Julian Neo said the new service centre will improve shipment processing capacity by 170%, enabling faster transit times that will boost the service for the company's customers in mainland Penang, Perlis and Kedah.

"The new service centre comprises 2,386 square metres of warehousing and office space, which is five times the size of the previous facility. This is in response to increased demand for international shipping by the northern region's business community.

"In line with Deutsche Post DHL Group's commitment to achieving zero carbon emissions by 2050, the facility is equipped with state-of-the-art solar panels and fitted with energy-efficient appliances and systems that are expected to cut the release of greenhouse gases by 26.9%,” he told reporters at the new service centre's opening ceremony, which was officiated by Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow here on Tuesday (May 17).

Neo said its Prai service centre, which was relocated from Taman Inderawasih, handles domestic and time-definite international shipments to and from the 220 countries and territories served by DHL Express and offers a convenient service point for customer drop-off and pickup.

As a major facilitator of global supply chains, DHL Express helps home-grown brands realise their growth potential by tapping into the export market, he said.

"With the bigger and better Prai service centre, our customers are better positioned to leverage the ongoing growth of business-to-business and business-to-consumer e-commerce,” he added.

Neo noted that in May 2021, DHL Express introduced a direct Hong Kong-Penang route, which plies five times a week between the Central Asia hub in Hong Kong and the Penang Gateway.

An Airbus A300 aircraft with 54 tonnes of cargo space is dedicated to serve Penang where electronic components and parts make up the bulk of goods flown.

Meanwhile, Chow said the state government is pleased to see DHL Express establishing a stronger foothold in Penang to support the thriving businesses there, which have seen an uptick in overseas sales.

“DHL Express’ investment demonstrates confidence in the state while capitalising on our strategic connectivity to Asia as a whole,” he added.