LAWAS: The Sarawak government is in discussions with Brunei Darussalam to extend the operating hours at the Sarawak-Brunei border entry points.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said that extending the operating hours until midnight could alleviate congestion issues at the border between the two regions.
Currently, the border entry points between Sarawak and Brunei operate from 6am to 10pm, causing difficulties for travellers, especially during holidays and school breaks.
“While discussions have been held regarding extending the border operation hours, particularly at Merapok and Sindumin, to midnight, we are awaiting Brunei’s decision,” he assured the media during his visit to the Mengkalap Immigration, Customs, Quarantine, and Security (ICQS) Complex on Tuesday (March 19).
Furthermore, Awang Tengah stressed the importance of efficient management by authorities during peak hours to reduce long queues of vehicles.
As such, he suggested that proper planning and allocation of personnel, as well as opening specific lanes for citizens and foreign visitors, could help address this issue.
Shifting focus, Awang Tengah stressed the significance of maintaining cleanliness and a positive image at the Mengkalap ICQS.
He underscored that as the primary entry point for foreign nationals into Sarawak, there is a crucial need for cleanliness, particularly in the restrooms.
“The cleanliness of ICQS must be maintained, especially the restrooms, and any damages should be promptly repaired.”
Awang Tengah, who is also the Bukit Sari assemblyman, called for the improvement of internet connectivity in the area to provide better service to visitors. “This is our gateway, and we must showcase the best at our entry points.”
During the visit, he was accompanied by Lawas District officer Ladin Atok, political secretary to the Premier of Sarawak Awangku Jinel Abedin Datuk Pengiran Jawa, Northern Region Development Agency director Datuk Ubaidillah Abdul Latif, and Lawas Immigration officer Affendi Ahmad.
