By DayakDaily Team
MIRI, June 3: The Kuala Baram deepening project, currently underway, is set to allow vessels of up to 5,000 tonnes to berth directly at Miri Port upon completion of its first phase, marking a major step towards strengthening the port’s capacity and boosting regional trade and tourism.
Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin said the second phase of the Kuala Baram project will extend the shipping route further out to sea, enabling Miri Port to evolve into a deep-sea port capable of further boosting trade and tourism.
“When this facility is fully completed, international cruise ships could potentially dock in Miri and bring more tourists to attractions such as Gunung Mulu National Park and Niah National Park,” he said as per reported by Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas).
He highlighted this when met during a visit to the Hari Gawai open house of former Miri City Council (MCC) councillor Kijan Toynbee at his residence today.
Lee, who is also Senadin assemblyman, expressed appreciation to Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg for approving several key development projects that are expected to have a major impact on Miri’s economic growth and the northern Sarawak hinterland.
He added that the construction of an additional dedicated lane for Malaysian vehicles at the Sungai Tujoh Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security (ICQS) Complex, funded by the Sarawak government at RM4 million, has been completed and is now operational.
“The lane separation system between Malaysian and Bruneian vehicles has helped significantly ease congestion during this year’s Gawai celebrations compared to previous years,” he said.
Meanwhile, the long-anticipated expansion of the Miri Airport Terminal has also been approved, with a project cost of RM445 million.
He said the development will significantly benefit the tourism, trade, and local economy sectors.
“The project is very important in strengthening Miri’s position as the main tourism gateway in northern Sarawak as well as supporting the State’s economic growth,” he said. — DayakDaily
