THE Infrastructure and Port Development Ministry will continue to provide effective and efficient administration of port operating resources and import delivery services.
It will also seek new economic opportunities.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said port authorities recorded a total throughput of 20.6 million tonnes in 2021, an increase of roughly 4.6 per cent (0.9 million tonnes) over the previous year’s figure of 19.7 million tonnes.
“As of April 30 2022, Sarawak State Port Authorities registered a total throughput of 7.48 million tonnes, an increase of about 8.6 per cent (0.59 million tonnes) in comparison with 6.89 million tonnes for the same period in 2021,” he said in his ministerial winding-up speech today.
Uggah said the Kuching Port Authority handled 3.20 million tonnes, up 8.1 per cent (0.24 million tonnes) from 2.96 million tonnes in 2021, while Rajang Port Authority handled 0.48 million tonnes, up 4.3 per cent (0.02 million tonnes) from 0.46 million tonnes in 2021.
“Samalaju Port Authority registered a total of 2.17 million tonnes, an increase of 22.6 per cent (0.4 million tonnes) from 1.77 million tonnes and Tanjung Manis Port Authority registered a total throughput of about 0.621 million tonnes in 2022, an increase which is meagre in comparison with the same period in 2021.
“With a total throughput of 1.01 million tonnes recorded, Miri Port Authority, however, registered a decrease of 4.7per cent (0.05 million tonnes) from 1.06 million tonnes.
“The decrease was mainly due to the reduction in the export of timber logs, heavy machinery, building materials, furniture and sawn timber to our neighbouring country,” he said.
He said the state government was dedicated to supporting port development by continuously enhancing the efficiency of port services to meet global and domestic demands.
“The development of our ports is being prioritised to boost economic activities and help us reach our goal of becoming a high-income society by 2030,”
“As part of the 12th Malaysia Plan, my ministry will conduct a research to develop a comprehensive master plan for all state ports to improve service efficiency and expand business opportunities,” he stressed.
The Kuching Port Authority is acquiring new cranes to increase its container handling performance and efficiency at the Senari Terminal, he said, adding that his ministry was looking into modernising port facilities and equipment in stages with an RM70 million allocation from the government.
“The Kuching Port is currently installing a Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS) to improve navigational safety by allowing authorities to track and monitor vessel movements within its radar coverage (harbour zones) along Sungai Sarawak.
“The state government is funding this project, which is expected to be completed by 2023.” he added.
