Sarawak Formulates Master Plan To Drive Strategic Port Development In The State

KUCHING, May 20 (Bernama) -- The Sarawak Ministry of Infrastructure and Port Development is currently formulating a comprehensive Sarawak Port Master Plan to provide strategic direction for port development across the state, in line with the cluster growth policy for the northern, central, and southern regions.

Its Deputy Minister, Datuk Majang Renggi, said a port advisor and a task force have been appointed to lead the development of the master plan, gathering input from key stakeholders and benchmarking against international best practices.

Replying to a question from Johnny Pang Leong Ming (GPS-Tanjong Batu) at the Sarawak Assembly sitting here, today, Majang said the role of the port advisor and taskforce was also to ensure that the state ports are well-positioned to drive long-term economic development and enhance regional competitiveness.

“The master plan will outline strategic initiatives and development priorities upon its completion and will be aligned with the roles of the forthcoming Sarawak Port Authority. This aims to streamline port governance by consolidating the functions of existing port authorities under a single centralised entity," he said.

He said the ministry will engage closely with key stakeholders, including state agencies, existing port authorities, terminal operators and industry players to ensure the master plan reflects the unique role and requirements of each port. 

He added that this engagement, along with data analysis and site assessment, will help tailor development strategies that are both locally responsive and regionally competitive.

To a supplementary question from Pang, Majang said the proposed new Sarawak Port Authority (SARPA), established following the passing of the Sarawak Ports Authority Bill, 2024, will serve as the central regulatory body for all ports across the state, replacing the current individual port authorities. 

“SARPA will have ownership of the Sarawak Port Master Plan and have responsibility for policy making, the regulation, and to harmonise development efforts, and ensure consistent governance, efficiency and align with Sarawak's long-term economic goals,” he added.

-- BERNAMA