Labuan Corp Advisory Council Urges CVLB To Set Up Labuan Branch To Boost Transport, Logistics Industry
By Jailani Hasan
LABUAN, April 29 (Bernama) -- The Commercial Vehicles Licensing Board (CVLB) has been urged to establish a branch here to facilitate dealings by transport and logistics companies operating on the island.
Labuan Corporation (LC) Advisory Council member Datuk Seri Patrick Tiong said the absence of a CVLB office in Labuan had long posed difficulties for industry players in handling matters related to commercial vehicle licences.
He said logistics and transport companies were often required to deal with CVLB offices outside Labuan, creating unnecessary delays, additional costs and administrative inconvenience.
“Labuan has been a federal territory since 1984 and is now under the administration of the federal government.
“Therefore, there is a strong need for CVLB to have its own branch here to support the local transport and logistics sector,” Tiong told Bernama after attending the second LC Advisory Council meeting here today.
He said the policy requiring at least 70 per cent equity ownership by Sabahans should also not be applied to Labuan-based companies, as Labuan is a federal territory and should be treated according to its own administrative status.
Tiong said applying such a requirement to Labuan could affect the participation of local companies in the transport and logistics industry, particularly those involved in commercial vehicle operations, port-related services and cargo movement.
“The policy may be suitable for Sabah, but Labuan’s status is different. Labuan is a federal territory, and the regulatory requirements should reflect that position,” he said.
Tiong, who is also Megah Port Management Sdn Bhd managing director, said the presence of a CVLB branch would also support Labuan’s growing role as a logistics, oil and gas, port and transshipment hub.
He said efficient licensing services were essential to ensure smoother movement of goods, commercial vehicles and port-related activities, especially as Labuan continues to strengthen its economic position.
Tiong also said that the Advisory Council has approved the continuation of sea rubbish collection work, which was previously managed by LC.
He said the service should continue under the local authority to ensure cleanliness of the island’s waters, particularly in areas surrounding the town, port, ferry terminal and tourism sites.
“Sea cleanliness is important not only for public health and environmental protection, but also for Labuan’s image as an island destination,” said Tiong.
He said the relevant agencies and industry players should work together to ensure Labuan is ready in terms of cleanliness, port facilities, visitor handling, local attractions, transport services and tourism support.
“The arrival of international cruise liners will provide economic spillover to Labuan, especially for local traders, transport operators, tourism players and service providers.
“We must make sure Labuan is ready to welcome them and leave a good impression on visitors,” said Tiong.
-- BERNAMA