Navigating New Horizons: UMT Students Explore MASkargo Operations

On July 24th, 2024, a group of 31 students from Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) had the opportunity to visit MASkargo at the Advanced Cargo Centre, Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). The visit was part of their Maritime Studies program, aimed at broadening their understanding of logistics and cargo operations, particularly in an airport setting. This experience provided a new exposure for the students, expanding their knowledge beyond maritime logistics to include air cargo management and operations.

The visit began with a warm welcome from the MASkargo team, who provided an overview of the company’s operations and its pivotal role in managing cargo traffic at KLIA. The introductory session covered the various stages involved in the cargo handling process, including the arrival of cargo via freighters, processing at the Cargo Terminal, and movement through the Free Commercial Zone (FCZ). The session also emphasized the customs clearance processes essential for international trade.

A significant focus of the visit was on the KLIA Free Commercial Zone, a critical area for the students to understand. The FCZ facilitates the efficient handling of international cargo, offering logistical advantages by easing customs procedures and regulations. The MASkargo team explained how the FCZ contributes to Malaysia’s position as a competitive logistics hub in the region, providing benefits such as deferred taxes and duties, which are crucial for international trade and logistics operations.

The students were then taken on a comprehensive tour of the Advanced Cargo Centre. They had the chance to observe the sophisticated infrastructure and technology employed in handling various types of cargo, including general cargo, perishables, and dangerous goods. This hands-on experience was particularly valuable for the students, as it provided a real-world context to their theoretical studies in maritime logistics.
During the tour, the students were introduced to the specialized handling procedures for different types of cargo, including the cold chain logistics necessary for perishable goods. The tour also covered the security measures in place to ensure the safety and integrity of cargo, an important aspect of both air and maritime logistics.

The visit to MASkargo provided the UMT students with a unique perspective on air cargo logistics, complementing their maritime studies. The exposure to the KLIA Free Commercial Zone and the advanced cargo handling processes offered a broader understanding of the logistics industry, preparing them for diverse career opportunities in the field. This event highlighted the importance of practical learning experiences in equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed for their future careers. The collaboration between UMT and MASkargo underscores the value of industry-academia partnerships in fostering educational growth and professional development.