Investigating the Challenges, Implications, and Strategies of Port City Development in the East Coast Region of Peninsular Malaysia: An Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) Approach

Abstract

Seaports play critical roles in both national economic development and international trade since the majority of goods in transit between countries are transported via ocean vessels. The formation and development of seaports have resulted from economic development at the city, regional and global levels. Many cities exist due to their historical function as ports. Owing to the importance of interdependence between seaports and cities, this paper aims to explore the potential challenges of, implications of, and strategies for developing a port city in the East Coast Region (ECR) of Peninsular Malaysia. An empirical study was conducted in Malaysia using 101 online surveys of key stakeholders with experience in developing port cities, including representatives from shipping lines, freight forwarders, seaport operators, shipping lines, land or state authorities, and seaport authorities. The data collected were analysed using exploratory factor analysis (EFA). The EFA results showed that the development of a port city has implications and creates challenges for both the port and the city. This paper further indicates strategies for addressing these challenges and the implications for the future development of the port city in the ECR of Peninsular Malaysia.