The Sarawak government has been urged to establish a Free Trade Zone (FTZ) at Bintulu Port.
Tanjong Batu assemblyman Johnny Pang said that streamlined customs regulations and attractive tax incentives would make the zone a magnet for global businesses, reducing operational costs and enhancing Sarawak’s competitive edge in international trade.
“The strategic location of Bintulu, combined with its robust infrastructure, makes it the ideal site for such a pioneering economic initiative,” he said when debating Sarawak Ports Authority Bill 2024 at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting today.
“This FTZ promises not only to attract a wide array of industries but also to stimulate local economic growth and create numerous high-quality jobs.”
Earlier, Deputy Premier and Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas had tabled the Sarawak Ports Authority Bill 2024.
Pang added that the establishment of the FTZ would drive demand for local services and boost various sectors of the economy, from logistics to manufacturing.
“The influx of businesses will necessitate advanced technological adoption and infrastructural upgrades, ensuring that Bintulu, and Sarawak at large, becomes a key player in the Asia-Pacific trade network,” he said.
He proposed transferring the management of significant lands and resources from Bintulu Port Authority to the Bintulu Development Authority (BDA).
“This move is essential to fully capitalise on Bintulu’s economic potential and to support the FTZ’s development, streamlining regulatory processes and leveraging BDA’s expertise in managing and developing industrial and commercial infrastructure.
“This transition will not only enhance the efficient utilisation of our resources but also stimulate economic growth, attract investments, and create substantial job opportunities, thus fortifying Bintulu’s strategic position as a key player in the global maritime industry,” he said.
