Aljabal Holding Exports 7 Containers of Bitumen 60/70 to Malaysia in June 2023: Boosting Infrastructure Growth

Introduction

June 2023 marked a significant milestone for Aljabal Holding as the company successfully exported 7 containers of 20ft each filled with Bitumen 60/70 to Malaysia in June 2025. This export shipment wasn’t just a business move—it was a strategic step towards deepening international trade relationships and addressing Malaysia’s ever-growing demand for high-grade construction materials. Bitumen 60/70, a key ingredient in road construction and infrastructure development, plays a vital role in supporting national growth projects across Southeast Asia.

As cities grow, highways expand, and new infrastructures emerge, the role of bitumen becomes more than just a binder—it’s the foundation beneath the progress. This single shipment is more than steel containers on a vessel; it’s a signal that global construction supply chains are evolving, and companies like Aljabal Holding are leading the charge.

Malaysia, with its ambitious infrastructure blueprint, is increasingly reliant on consistent, quality supplies of materials like Bitumen 60/70. And Aljabal Holding is strategically positioned to meet that need. In this article, we’ll dive into the nitty-gritty of this export event—why it matters, how it happened, and what it means for the future.

About Aljabal Holding

Aljabal Holding is no newcomer to the energy and materials export industry. With roots embedded in quality assurance, robust logistics, and international market insights, this company has become a major player in the exportation of petroleum derivatives, especially bitumen. Over the years, the company has built a reputation for reliability, consistency, and quality—three key traits that any global buyer looks for in a supplier.

The company operates out of the Middle East, a region rich in natural resources and historically significant in the global oil and gas trade. What sets Aljabal Holding apart is their commitment to modern practices—leveraging technology for inventory management, maintaining global compliance standards, and customizing services based on client requirements.

Aljabal’s reach goes beyond just Malaysia. Their export map includes several countries across Africa, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. What keeps clients returning is not just the product quality but the seamless service—from procurement to delivery. Their specialized team handles everything from sourcing to packaging, ensuring every shipment meets the highest international benchmarks.

In 2023 alone, Aljabal expanded its logistical capabilities, added more ports to its export list, and deepened its ties with trading partners. The June shipment to Malaysia was one of several critical moves they made to secure their position as a dominant exporter of bitumen in the region.

What is Bitumen 60/70?

If you’re in the construction or infrastructure world, you’ve likely come across the term “Bitumen 60/70.” But for the uninitiated, let’s break it down.

Bitumen 60/70 is a penetration grade bitumen commonly used in paving and road construction. The “60/70” refers to the penetration range of the bitumen—measured in tenths of a millimeter. This grade of bitumen is ideal for moderate climates, striking a balance between flexibility and hardness. It is soft enough to absorb road stress and tough enough to withstand traffic loads.

This grade is produced through the distillation of crude oil, which removes lighter fractions such as gasoline and diesel, leaving behind a thick, sticky, tar-like substance—bitumen. It is further processed and refined to achieve the desired penetration and viscosity.

Bitumen 60/70 is particularly suited for hot-mix asphalt applications, where it acts as a binder in asphalt concrete. It ensures that roads are durable, weather-resistant, and capable of handling heavy traffic. Thanks to its versatility and stability, it’s often the go-to material for road contractors, especially in tropical and sub-tropical climates like Malaysia’s.

But it’s not just about the roads. Bitumen 60/70 also finds applications in water-proofing, roofing, and insulation. Its resistance to water and chemical attack makes it a multi-purpose material in the construction industry.

Key Properties of Bitumen 60/70

What makes Bitumen 60/70 such a reliable material? Its strength lies in its unique properties. As a penetration grade bitumen, its number—60/70—refers to how deep a standard needle penetrates the material under specific conditions. The higher the number, the softer the bitumen. Bitumen 60/70 offers just the right balance, making it suitable for regions with moderate to high temperatures.

One of its standout features is its high viscosity, which ensures it binds well with aggregates during mixing. This results in asphalt with excellent cohesion, flexibility, and durability. It also provides strong adhesion to mineral aggregates, ensuring roads don’t crack or break under stress.

Bitumen 60/70 also has a high flashpoint, usually above 230°C, which makes it safer to handle during high-temperature processes. Moreover, it’s chemically stable, meaning it doesn’t react with water or most chemicals, and remains effective for years.

In hot climates, it resists rutting—a common issue where roads deform under heavy traffic. In cooler settings, it maintains enough elasticity to resist cracking. It’s this dual performance that has made it a global favorite in road construction.

The Export Deal to Malaysia – June 2023

Let’s dive into the deal that set the wheels in motion—literally. In June 2023, Aljabal Holding successfully shipped seven 20-foot containers of Bitumen 60/70 to Malaysia. This wasn’t just a routine shipment—it represented strategic planning, logistic coordination, and market insight all rolled into one.

Each of these 20ft containers held a significant volume of bitumen, ready to be used in major infrastructure projects across Malaysia. The decision to export this specific grade of bitumen was influenced by Malaysia’s climate and infrastructure needs. Aljabal Holding ensured the shipment met all the technical and quality standards required by Malaysian import regulations.

Why Malaysia? Because the country is undergoing massive infrastructure development—think expressways, bridges, airport expansions, and urban renewal projects. And all of that requires a steady, dependable supply of materials like bitumen.

The deal itself reflected trust—on both sides. Malaysia trusted Aljabal for timely delivery and high-grade material. Aljabal trusted their logistics, packaging, and compliance systems to handle international trade complexities. And the outcome? A smooth transaction and a foundation for future collaborations.

Container Details

Each of the seven containers used in the June 2023 shipment measured 20 feet in length—a standard size in global logistics but capable of holding massive quantities of product when it comes to high-density materials like bitumen. To paint a picture, a 20ft container can typically hold approximately 25 metric tons of bitumen, depending on packaging and safety regulations. Multiply that by seven, and you’re looking at 175 metric tons of pure road-building potential.

Now, let’s talk logistics. Bitumen isn’t just scooped into containers and shipped off. This material is sensitive to temperature and handling conditions. Aljabal Holding uses drum-packed or flexi-bag systems to ensure that bitumen arrives at its destination in optimal condition. These systems help prevent leakage, reduce contamination, and make unloading smoother at the receiving port.

The packing process is carefully managed to meet ISO standards and comply with the recipient country’s import norms. Each drum or bag is labeled with origin details, grade specifications, batch numbers, and safety markings. This not only ensures transparency and traceability but also simplifies customs clearance in Malaysia.

Moreover, the containers are inspected prior to shipment for any damage or contamination risk. A final quality assurance check is carried out post-loading to verify the sealing, securing, and weight limits are all within acceptable parameters. Aljabal Holding’s logistics team ensures GPS tracking and real-time updates for the client, which builds trust and fosters repeat business.

Port of Origin and Destination

The bitumen in this shipment originated from the Middle East—a region known for its abundant petroleum resources and advanced refining infrastructure. Aljabal Holding leverages access to top-grade refineries located near major ports like Jebel Ali Port (UAE) or Bandar Abbas Port (Iran), depending on contract specifications. These ports are well-equipped with container terminals, chemical handling equipment, and rapid clearance facilities.

The destination for this shipment? Likely one of Malaysia’s busiest ports such as Port Klang or Penang Port. These hubs are connected to Malaysia’s national transportation network, making them ideal entry points for construction materials like bitumen. Once unloaded, the bitumen is either stored in temporary warehouses or immediately transported to on-site projects across the country.

Shipping routes between the Middle East and Southeast Asia are among the busiest trade corridors globally. With routine traffic of container vessels, the delivery time from origin to Malaysia generally spans 15 to 21 days, depending on sea conditions and customs procedures.

This specific shipment not only reflects operational efficiency but also highlights Malaysia’s role as a strategic partner in the global bitumen trade. The country’s expanding infrastructure demands are turning it into a lucrative market for exporters like Aljabal Holding.

Why Malaysia Needs Bitumen 60/70

Malaysia is undergoing a transformative phase in infrastructure development. Roads are being expanded, urban centers are modernizing, and industrial zones are being constructed at a rapid pace. All of this is powered by a single, often overlooked material—bitumen.

Bitumen 60/70 is the ideal grade for Malaysia due to its climate compatibility. The tropical weather, characterized by high humidity and consistent temperatures, requires a bitumen grade that won’t soften excessively under heat or crack in sudden cool spells. Bitumen 60/70 hits the sweet spot—offering flexibility without compromising on strength.

Beyond road construction, Malaysia uses bitumen in projects such as:

Airport runways and taxiways
Industrial estate roads
Housing development projects
Drainage and waterproofing systems

The 11th Malaysia Plan and subsequent national infrastructure blueprints have emphasized expanding the road network, especially in underdeveloped regions. With new expressways like the Pan Borneo Highway and various Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) projects in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor, demand for reliable construction inputs has skyrocketed.

Moreover, local bitumen production in Malaysia is limited, making importation not just a supplement but a necessity. Aljabal Holding, with its quality assurance and consistent delivery timelines, has naturally become a go-to source.

Bitumen Demand Trends in Southeast Asia

The bitumen industry in Southeast Asia is booming. Rapid urbanization, growing middle-class populations, and heavy investment in infrastructure projects are fueling demand like never before. According to market insights, the Southeast Asian bitumen market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.5% from 2023 to 2028.

Countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines, alongside Malaysia, are all heavily investing in:

Highway development
Smart city projects
Flood-resistant infrastructure
Export-import terminal upgrades

Bitumen 60/70 is the most preferred grade for most of these countries, making it a hot commodity across the region. Asphalt plants and construction firms are always on the lookout for reliable suppliers who can match both quality and quantity requirements.

Moreover, governments across Southeast Asia are adopting Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) to accelerate infrastructure rollout. These contracts often require certified and traceable bitumen sources, which is where companies like Aljabal Holding shine through.

And it’s not just about roads anymore. Bitumen is increasingly being used in non-road applications such as industrial waterproofing, sealing of storage tanks, and even solar panel waterproof coatings. This diversification further boosts the long-term demand for high-quality bitumen across Asia.

Shipping and Handling Process

Shipping bitumen isn’t as simple as moving boxes—it involves a delicate balance of temperature control, safety compliance, and material protection. Aljabal Holding has streamlined this process with a blend of traditional logistics and modern handling technologies.

Bitumen 60/70 can be shipped in several forms:

Steel drums (180-220 kg each)
Poly bags
Jumbo bags
Bulk shipments using bitumen tankers or flexi tanks

For this particular shipment to Malaysia, drum-packed containers were likely chosen due to ease of handling at the destination and reduced risk of spillage. Each drum is heat-sealed and placed on pallets for stable transport. Forklifts and cranes are used for loading and unloading, minimizing manual labor and increasing efficiency.

Throughout the shipping journey, temperature monitoring is key. Bitumen needs to be stored at the right temperature to maintain its viscosity and prevent solidification. Aljabal uses temperature indicators and high-quality insulation materials to ensure stability during transit.

Additionally, all containers are compliant with IMO (International Maritime Organization) safety codes. This includes proper labeling, Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), emergency handling procedures, and spill kits.

Upon arrival at Malaysian ports, customs inspections are swift due to pre-cleared documentation and quality certificates provided by Aljabal’s export department. From there, local transport companies—pre-partnered with Aljabal—take over the inland distribution process.

Compliance and Regulations

When dealing with international exports—especially materials like bitumen—compliance isn’t optional; it’s the foundation of a successful transaction. Aljabal Holding understands this well and follows strict global standards to ensure every shipment is regulation-ready.

The company ensures compliance with:

International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code
REACH regulations (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals)
ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certifications
Customs and import laws of Malaysia

These compliance checks begin right at the manufacturing stage. Bitumen 60/70 produced for export undergoes rigorous quality testing—penetration, viscosity, softening point, and flashpoint are all measured and documented. Aljabal provides a Certificate of Analysis (COA) with every batch, giving Malaysian authorities assurance that the product meets specified grades.

Furthermore, export documents such as the Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, Packing List, and Certificate of Origin are prepared meticulously. These documents are aligned with both the Middle Eastern export protocols and Malaysia’s customs requirements.

Malaysia itself enforces strict environmental and safety controls on imports of industrial chemicals and materials. Bitumen importers must register with the Department of Environment (DOE) and the Royal Malaysian Customs Department, both of which have clear guidelines on storage, transport, and disposal of petroleum derivatives.

Failure to meet these guidelines can lead to hefty fines or even shipment rejection—something Aljabal Holding has successfully avoided due to their airtight compliance system. Their internal audit team reviews every step of the process, minimizing the risk of delays or legal hiccups.

Aljabal Holding’s Export Strategy

Aljabal Holding doesn’t operate on guesswork—it works with a long-term export strategy tailored to specific regions, client types, and market needs. Their decision to export to Malaysia in June 2023 was not just a business move—it was a calculated decision based on market intelligence, infrastructure trends, and client feedback.

Here’s what defines their export strategy:

Client-centric approach: They work closely with infrastructure companies, government agencies, and project managers to understand demand patterns and timelines.
Flexible packaging and logistics: From steel drums to flexi-tanks, they offer packaging solutions based on project requirements and port facilities.
Global presence: Aljabal exports to more than 25 countries, with Southeast Asia, Africa, and South Asia being the largest markets.
Strong supplier networks: They source raw materials from trusted refiners and maintain robust relationships with shipping lines and freight forwarders.

Aljabal’s team constantly monitors price fluctuations, freight rates, and international policy changes to stay ahead of market shifts. Their marketing and logistics departments work hand-in-hand to ensure that every inquiry turns into a lasting relationship.

Malaysia, being one of their priority markets, gets special attention. The company has assigned local agents to handle customer service, resolve issues, and build community-level trust. These small but strategic moves are what keep Aljabal Holding at the forefront of the bitumen export business.

Other Countries They Export To

While Malaysia was a highlight in June 2023, Aljabal Holding’s influence spans far and wide. The company has established itself in numerous regions where infrastructure growth is surging, including:

India
Bangladesh
Vietnam
Tanzania
Kenya
Ghana
Philippines

In each of these countries, Aljabal customizes its services to meet regional infrastructure demands. For instance, in East Africa, bitumen demand is high due to ongoing road modernization funded by the World Bank and China-led initiatives. Aljabal supplies both Bitumen 60/70 and other grades like 80/100 depending on the climate and soil conditions.

In India, where temperature variations are vast, Aljabal works with clients on a city-by-city basis to match the right grade with regional weather. Their logistics teams ensure on-time deliveries even during monsoon seasons, which can cause major port delays.

Their success in these regions boils down to one thing—trust. Aljabal doesn’t just deliver products; it delivers confidence. Their history of zero contamination claims, punctual deliveries, and transparent communication is what makes them a favorite in multiple markets.

Economic Impact of the Export

The June 2023 shipment may seem like just another export deal, but its ripple effects are felt across both Malaysian and Middle Eastern economies. Let’s break it down.

For Malaysia:

Project acceleration: Reliable supply of bitumen ensures construction projects stay on schedule.
Cost control: Competitive pricing from international suppliers like Aljabal helps control infrastructure budgets.
Job creation: From unloading to trucking, the supply chain employs hundreds of local workers.

For Aljabal Holding and the Middle East:

Foreign revenue generation: Export deals like this inject foreign exchange into the economy.
Supply chain engagement: Refineries, packaging plants, and shipping companies all benefit from large-scale exports.
Brand reputation: Successful international deals boost brand value and create openings in new markets.

Even beyond economics, such deals contribute to diplomatic goodwill. Trade relationships often translate into political and cultural exchanges, improving ties between countries. Malaysia and the UAE, for instance, have long maintained a friendly bilateral relationship enhanced by active trade in oil and petrochemicals.

The true beauty of international commerce is its multiplier effect—one export equals multiple benefits, across industries, geographies, and generations.

Benefits for Local Malaysian Companies

What do Malaysian construction companies get out of this? More than just barrels of bitumen.

First, there’s the consistency in supply. With Aljabal as a trusted exporter, local companies don’t have to worry about delays, shortfalls, or product quality issues. This helps them meet project deadlines and maintain client satisfaction.

Second, there’s the cost benefit. Aljabal offers competitive pricing thanks to their direct access to refineries and efficient shipping routes. For Malaysian firms, this means reduced material costs and better profit margins.

Third, there’s technical support. Aljabal doesn’t just ship the product and disappear. Their representatives are available to help with product queries, unloading guidance, and post-delivery inspections. This level of service builds loyalty and long-term partnerships.

Finally, there’s the knowledge transfer. Working with a global player like Aljabal often exposes local companies to international best practices in bitumen handling, storage, and application techniques. That’s a hidden bonus that helps uplift the entire industry.

Future Plans by Aljabal Holding

Aljabal Holding isn’t stopping at one successful export deal. The company has laid out an ambitious roadmap for expanding its global presence and reinforcing its reputation as a premium supplier of bitumen and petroleum-based products.

One of the most exciting elements of their future strategy is the increase in production and export volume. With rising demand across Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America, Aljabal plans to enhance its refining capacity and invest in more advanced packaging and transport systems.

They’re also focusing heavily on sustainability. While bitumen remains a petroleum product, Aljabal is looking into more eco-friendly storage materials, low-emission packaging processes, and carbon offset partnerships to align with global green targets.

Another key area is technology integration. The company is developing digital platforms for real-time tracking, automated documentation, and AI-driven inventory forecasting. This will allow clients to plan their projects more efficiently and ensure zero downtime due to supply chain issues.

To support this growth, Aljabal Holding is also building strategic storage hubs in countries like India, Kenya, and Indonesia. These hubs will serve as distribution points to reduce lead times and improve service delivery for regional clients.

Additionally, they’re investing in local partnerships and exploring opportunities for joint ventures with government and private entities in Malaysia and neighboring countries. These collaborations aim to localize services, reduce costs, and adapt offerings based on each market’s unique demands.

In essence, Aljabal isn’t just reacting to demand—it’s shaping the future of bitumen trade.

Conclusion

The shipment of 7 containers (20ft each) of Bitumen 60/70 by Aljabal Holding to Malaysia in June 2023 wasn’t just a logistical accomplishment—it was a landmark in the growing narrative of global infrastructure and trade. This export not only reinforced Aljabal’s stature as a reliable supplier but also fueled Malaysia’s push toward modernizing its roads, highways, and construction sectors.

From the technical precision of Bitumen 60/70 to the economic and strategic depth of the Malaysia deal, every aspect reflects careful planning, flawless execution, and a commitment to quality. Aljabal Holding has once again proven that success in export is more than moving products—it’s about building bridges, both literal and metaphorical.

As Malaysia continues to grow and regional demand for construction materials accelerates, companies like Aljabal will remain at the forefront—paving the way, one shipment at a time.

FAQs

1. What is Bitumen 60/70 used for?

Bitumen 60/70 is widely used in road construction, airport runways, and waterproofing. It provides strong adhesion, flexibility, and durability, making it perfect for tropical climates like Malaysia’s.

2. How is bitumen transported safely?

Bitumen is usually shipped in sealed steel drums, polybags, or flexi-tanks within 20ft containers. These containers are temperature-controlled and labeled to meet international shipping and safety standards.

3. Why choose Aljabal Holding for bitumen supply?

Aljabal Holding is known for its high-quality products, on-time delivery, and global compliance. With a presence in over 25 countries, they offer consistent supply and customer support.

4. What makes Bitumen 60/70 suitable for Malaysia?

Malaysia’s hot and humid climate requires bitumen that won’t melt easily or crack in heat. Bitumen 60/70 has the perfect viscosity and penetration properties for such weather.

5. How does this export benefit Malaysia’s economy?

It ensures a steady supply of construction materials, supports timely infrastructure development, creates jobs in logistics and construction, and strengthens international trade ties.

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