KUCHING: There is a pressing need for new legislation to create a central port authority in Sarawak.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said that such a move would allow the state government to manage all ports within the state, including taking control of the previously federally-run Bintulu Port.
“We are committed to establishing the central port authority during the upcoming State Legislative Assembly (DUN) session in May,” he said, assigning Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, the minister responsible, to oversee the initiative.
“With the establishment of this authority, Bintulu Port will be integrated into Sarawak’s port management framework,” he told reporters after attending the Premier’s Department Chinese New Year celebration at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) building today (Feb 19).
Abang Johari also reflected on the achievement of regaining control over Bintulu Port from the federal government after 43 years, a move he equates to the successful transfer of the Bakun Dam’s authority to Sarawak in 2017.
For the record, during the 19th DUN session in November last year, Uggah said that his ministry was in the process of drafting a bill to form the new Sarawak Ports Authority, promising its readiness for the forthcoming DUN session.
He also outlined plans to consolidate the five existing port authorities—Kuching, Rajang, Miri, Tanjung Manis, and Samalaju—into a single entity to streamline and improve the efficiency of port management, operations, planning, and development across the state.
“This unified approach aims to bolster the efficiency of trade and economic growth,” said Uggah.
