By Christopher Lidom
KUCHING, Sept 23: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg officially announced the renaming of Bintulu Port to Borneo Oil and Gas (BOG) Supply Base.
Abang Johari said he hoped that the new name will send the message of Bintulu as the first stop for any vessel that want to travel to Borneo.
“Bintulu port is one of the ways to improve Sarawak’s economy not only from a supply base, but also to import materials and export products from Sarawak
“Coincidentally Sarawak is located on Borneo Island, and Borneo Island can become star that shines bright if we have a proper economy,” he said during the launching ceremony of Borneo Oil & Gas Supply Base which was streamed live via Sarawak Public Communications Unit’s (Ukas) Facebook page today.
He said the new name (BOG Supply Base) is a brand that the Sarawak government will build for the port.
“Now it is easier because we own the port. We do not need approval from other people, because our own board can make the decision,” he added.
In addition, BOG Supply Base has been certified as a green port, which Abang Johari sees as a significant achievement. This certification is expected to boost Sarawak’s economy, not only through BOG Supply Base itself but also by facilitating the import of materials and export of Sarawak products.
With the transfer of ownership of BOG Supply Base to Sarawak in progress, managing the facility will be more streamlined, as it will soon fall under the full ownership of the region.
“We (Sarawak) won’t need another’s approval (to conduct operations relating to the port),” added Abang Johari.
He also expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of Defence whose representatives were also present during the launch of BOG Supply Base, for agreeing to strengthen the defences of the existing military base in Bintulu; a move that is significant to the local naval base.
Abang Johari emphasised that the agreement to strengthen defence is crucial, given the substantial Malaysian investment in Bintulu, particularly in BOG Supply Base, and stressed that securing the facility is essential.
Currently occupying 50 acres, the BOG Supply Base has a proposed expansion to 300 acres to serve as a future supply base, marking a new era for Sarawak as it expands facilities to meet global demands.
The new BOG Supply Base will enhance Bintulu Port’s status as a leading maritime hub, supporting Sarawak’s goal of becoming a developed state by 2030. — DayakDaily
