By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, Sept 3: Sarawak Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts (MTCP), Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, believes that the approval for the development of a new Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) base, the Markas Wilayah Laut 4 (MAWILLA 4), in Bintulu is a timely decision for the security of Sarawak.
Abdul Karim emphasised that Bintulu’s position as a hub of economic activity makes it essential for the area to be well-protected, especially given the ongoing tensions in the South China Sea.
The minister also highlighted that the location of Bintulu, coupled with the presence of valuable offshore resources such as oil and gas, necessitates a robust naval presence to safeguard against potential maritime threats.
“The base will also be crucial for maintaining the readiness of our national borders and airspace against any potential threats,” he told the media at a press conference following the launch of the 6th edition of the What About Kuching (WAK) Festival 2024 Calendar today at a local hotel here.
Although the proposal for the new base is still in its planning stages, Abdul Karim expressed hope that the Federal government would expedite the process.
He also pointed out that the call for the base considers the uncertainties that could arise in the next 10 to 20 years, especially concerning maritime security.
Additionally, Abdul Karim mentioned that the majority of coastal and offshore areas in Bintulu and Sarawak are rich in natural gas resources.
“These areas, along with our oil reserves and marine life, must be well protected,” he added. — DayakDaily
