MIRI: Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has announced plans for the construction of a seabed port in Miri, which is set to transform the economy of northern Sarawak, particularly Miri Division.
Speaking at a press conference following the earth-breaking ceremony for the proposed dredging and associated works project at the Batang Baram Delta on Wednesday, the Premier highlighted the strategic significance of the new seaport.
“We will be building a seabed port at a 25-metre depth. This development will drive the economic growth of Sarawak and the Miri Division,” he said.
The RM208.9 million dredging project, carried out by Rimbun Prima Sdn Bhd (RPSB) and China Communications Construction Company (M) Sdn Bhd (CCC) through a joint venture, is expected to be completed by March 2027, taking approximately 33 months.
The works will deepen the access channel at Kuala Baram for Miri Port and involve the construction of two 6km training bunds to ensure effective flushing of the dredged channel.
Abang Johari also emphasised the broader impact of the project on various sectors.
“The improved port facilities will enhance cargo handling, containerisation, and even open the door to cruise tourism. Miri could become a stopover for cruise ships heading to Indonesia, boosting the local tourism industry,” he said.
Additionally, the new facilities will support the export of Sarawak’s key commodities, including palm oil, and contribute to the ship bunkering industry, complementing the operations at Bintulu Port.
He noted that the dredging and bund construction would also alter the landscape of the area, with natural hydraulic processes forming new land next to the bunds.
These newly formed lands will be governed by the Sarawak Land Code. Resort developments are also part of the government’s long-term vision, aimed at transforming Miri into a hub of economic activity.
“This is a state fully funded project, and we are committed to seeing it through. It will be a major step in reshaping the economy of northern Sarawak,” he added.
The event was also attended by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, who is also the Second Minister for Finance and New Economy and Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development; Minister for Transport Sarawak Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin; Deputy Minister for Women, Childhood, and Community Development I Datuk Rosey Yunus; State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki; and Miri Port Authority chairman and Batu Danau assemblyman Dato Palu @ Paulus Palu Gumbang.
