What is transport?
Transport is the movement of people and goods from one place to another. A good transport network links towns, factories, farms and ports, helping trade, industry and everyday travel. Malaysia's transport is grouped into three main types: land, water and air.
Types of transport
- Land transport — roads, highways (such as the North–South Expressway) and railways. The rail system includes KTM services and city transit such as the LRT and MRT in the Klang Valley.
- Water transport — ships and boats using ports and rivers. Major ports include Port Klang and the Port of Tanjung Pelepas, which handle most of the country's cargo.
- Air transport — aeroplanes using airports such as Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). Air travel is the fastest for long distances.
Key idea
The three main types of transport are LAND (road and rail), WATER (sea and river) and AIR. Each suits different distances, costs and types of cargo.
Importance of transport
Example
The North–South Expressway lets lorries carry goods quickly from factories in the north to Port Klang for export, saving time and cost.
- Moves raw materials to factories and finished goods to markets and ports.
- Connects rural areas to towns, improving access to schools, hospitals and jobs.
- Supports tourism by carrying visitors to attractions and creates many jobs.
- Speeds up the growth of towns and industrial areas along major routes.
Remember
- Water transport is cheapest for heavy, bulky goods over long distances.
- Air transport is fastest but most expensive.
- Land transport is flexible and best for short, door-to-door journeys.