DHL Express has strengthened its Asia Pacific network with a major air freight upgrade on its Penang–Hong Kong route, adding capacity to support rising intra-regional trade and the accelerating growth of the technology and semiconductor sectors.
The logistics provider has replaced its previous Airbus A321 service with a larger Boeing 767 freighter, increasing payload by an additional 20 tonnes per daily flight. The service is operated in partnership with Raya Airways.
The move comes as Asia Pacific continues to expand its role as the engine room of global trade. Malaysia, and Penang in particular, have seen rapid growth in electronics and semiconductor manufacturing, with the state recording approximately EUR 2.56 billion (RM12.5 billion) in manufacturing investment in the first half of 2025, up 150 per cent year-on-year. For export-driven producers in northern Malaysia, time-sensitive shipments to Hong Kong and beyond are a critical part of supply chain reliability.
Peter Bardens, Senior Vice President for Network Operations and Aviation, Asia Pacific, DHL Express, says the upgrade reinforces the company’s commitment to supporting the region’s momentum. He says the larger aircraft and daily schedule will provide better connectivity for customers as trade patterns evolve.
The enhancement also aligns with insights from the DHL Global Connectedness Tracker 2025, which identifies Asia Pacific as one of the world’s most dynamic regions for trade growth despite geopolitical pressures. Malaysia ranks among the top 10 fastest-growing trading nations globally in the first half of the year, underpinned by resilient manufacturing output and strong regional demand.
Raya Airways Group Managing Director, Mohamad Najib Ishak, highlights that the upgraded service strengthens support for Penang’s expanding electrical and electronics industries while enhancing Malaysia’s access to global markets.
DHL Express notes that the additional capacity is part of its broader strategy to reinforce key lanes across Asia Pacific as supply chains shift, diversify and deepen ties within the region.
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