KUCHING – The Sarawak government has taken a strategic step to strengthen port development by establishing the Sarawak Port Authority, which will assume regulatory functions for all ports in the state.
Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development, Datuk Majang Renggi, explained during the 19th Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting that the move is part of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Port Development’s (MIPD) broader plan to align port growth with the state’s economic targets under the Post-COVID Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
“The Sarawak Port Authority will serve as the sole regulatory body for all state ports, replacing the existing port authorities, including Bintulu Port, after the official handover from the Federal Government to the Sarawak Government is finalised,” he said in response to a question from Murum assemblyman Kennedy Chuk Pai Ugon.
Majang added that the corporatisation of port authorities is underway, enabling ports to operate as commercial entities with stronger corporate governance, improved operational efficiency, enhanced safety, and sound financial management. This transformation is being implemented in phases.
The Sarawak Port Authority will also play a central role in planning and coordinating port development through a comprehensive strategy.
One of the key approaches involves port clustering, which aims to optimise the functions of each port based on their strengths and roles.
This method is expected to reduce duplication, strengthen logistics chains, and promote the growth of hinterland areas surrounding major ports.
Among the ongoing projects is the “Dredging and Associated Works Project” in Kuala Baram, managed by the Miri Port Authority, which is scheduled for completion in October 2026.
Additionally, the establishment of the “Borneo Oil and Gas Supply Base” will further position Bintulu as a strategic hub for the oil and gas industry.
Looking ahead, the Sarawak government is actively planning a mega project in Tanjung Embang involving the construction of a deep-sea port and gas terminal.
The first phase of this development, undertaken in collaboration with PETROS, is expected to begin operations in 2032.
Majang also highlighted plans to develop Free Zone areas in Kuching, Bintulu, Samalaju, and Miri. These zones are intended to attract investment in export-orientated industries and increase value-added activities, further boosting Sarawak’s economic competitiveness.
The government’s initiatives reflect a long-term vision of building a modern, efficient, and sustainable port system that supports Sarawak’s economic growth while ensuring strategic advantages in logistics and trade.
