KUCHING – Sarawak is examining the potential of a sustainable rail system to connect Bintulu, Kidurong and Samalaju with the aim of strengthening industrial logistics and supporting long-term economic growth.
Premier of Sarawak Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari revealed the plan during the 30th anniversary celebration of Bintulu Port Holdings Berhad on 14 April.
The proposed rail link would connect Bintulu Port and Samalaju Port, forming a three-point network designed to improve the movement of goods and people.
A feasibility study is currently underway, with the project intended to align with Sarawak’s broader development strategy and commitment to green logistics.
Abang Johari explained that the rail system would complement ongoing industrial expansion in Samalaju and reinforce Bintulu’s role as a vital economic gateway.
He emphasised that efficient and sustainable transport infrastructure is essential for attracting investment and ensuring competitiveness as Sarawak advances its Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030.
The Premier highlighted the importance of the Samalaju Free Zone in driving new investment and strengthening downstream industries.
He noted that a successful free zone must provide more than incentives, offering a complete ecosystem that fosters innovation and long-term growth.
Industrial capacity is also being expanded through Samalaju Industrial Park 2, which supports Sarawak’s target of achieving 10 gigawatts of power capacity by 2030 and 15 GW by 2035.
Abang Johari stressed that Bintulu Port will remain central to Sarawak’s transition towards cleaner energy, given its strategic role as Malaysia’s main gateway for liquefied natural gas exports.
Sarawak is positioning itself as a global energy player by advancing hydrogen, ammonia and renewable energy projects.
Strategic collaborations with international and local partners, including Shanghai International Port Group, Sarawak Petchem and Brooke Holdings, are expected to strengthen this ambition. Plans to develop a halal hub were also welcomed as part of the state’s diversification strategy.
The Premier urged Bintulu Port to embrace digitalisation and automation, describing smart technologies and data-driven operations as critical for future competitiveness.
He said the transfer of regulatory authority of Bintulu Port to the Sarawak government marked a milestone, enabling better alignment with state priorities.
With the establishment of the Sarawak Ports Authority, operations across Kuching, Miri, Tanjung Manis and Sibu will be streamlined under a unified framework.
Abang Johari also pointed to global geopolitical tensions affecting energy supply chains, stressing the need for resilience and diversification.
He reaffirmed Sarawak’s commitment to strengthening its gas value chain, accelerating renewable energy adoption and mitigating rising costs for the public.
“In this context, Bintulu Port is not just a port but a strategic asset to ensure Sarawak remains competitive and resilient,” he said.
The Premier concluded by calling for Bintulu Port to evolve into a smart, green and globally competitive port group over the next three decades.
The event was attended by senior state leaders, port officials and industry representatives, underscoring the importance of the initiative for Sarawak’s future.
