MIRI: Work on the biggest institute offering maritime courses in Sarawak, Pelita Maslaut Sdn Bhd (PMSB), began on Thursday (Sept 3), with the first stage costing RM20mil.
The project is divided into two stages with total cost amounting to RM30mil.
The first stage is expected to be completed within 18 months.
The earth-breaking ceremony for the site was done by Assistant Urban Development and Resources Minister Datu Len Talif Salleh.
“We believe and are optimistic that this industry (maritime) can help boost the state’s economy in the wake of the global Covid-19 crisis,” he said.
He added that the selection of Miri city as the location for the main campus was a right choice, considering its strategic location that would help the industry grow further.
The complex sits on a 15-acre land and is capable of housing 1,000 trainees at any one time.
It is fully equipped with high-tech equipment, including boarding facilities.
According to PMSB managing director Masni Amit, construction was supposed to be carried out in April but due to Covid-19, it had been halted.
PMSB was established in 2000 with its first headquarters set up in Sibu before they expanded to Kota Kinabalu.
Also present were Sibuti MP Lukanisman Awang Sauni, Sarawak Foundation director Azmi Bujang, Miri District officer Abdul Aziz Mohd Yusuf and deputy mayor Julaihi Mohamad.
