THE Sarawak Ports Authority Bill 2024 is a timely and a crucial move towards consolidating and amalgamating all port authorities in Sarawak under one central authority.
Debating in support of the Bill, Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng noted that the Bill aims to establish a body corporate to be known as Sarawak Ports Authority.
“This will manage, regulate, control and administer all ports in Sarawak, and to provide for the functions and powers of the Authority, the licensing of operators of ports and port undertakings; and for matters connected therewith and incidental thereto,” he said.
The Bill was tabled for First Reading by Deputy Premier and Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
Chieng added that in ensuring a comprehensive governance of ports, it was imperative to grant the Sarawak Ports Authority the explicit right to oversee and enforce safety measures within ports.
“Incorporating safety as a designated function would enhance the Authority’s capacity to safeguard not only maritime operations but also the well-being of personnel and the environment,” he said.
