By DayakDaily Team
MIRI, Nov 11: Sarawak is setting its sights on a greener, smarter and more competitive maritime future, with plans to strengthen infrastructure and connectivity, accelerate digitalisation and encourage the adoption of low-carbon technologies.
According to a TVS report, Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin said these priorities would guide the Sarawak Ministry of Transport (MOTS) in advancing the State’s maritime and river transport sectors.
He said the ministry would also focus on enhancing the competitiveness of the local shipping industry while strengthening maritime infrastructure and connectivity.
Lee said improving governance, navigation safety and the operational capabilities of the Sarawak Rivers Board (SRB) remained among the ministry’s key priorities as it marked its seventh year of establishment.
“In the first quarter of 2026 alone, the Sarawak Rivers Board recorded more than 141,000 movements, while conducting 369 patrols, 589 vessel inspections and 57 enforcement operations,” he said.
He said this when delivering his speech at the 2026 Maritime and River Industry Players and Stakeholders Engagement Session and Appreciation Dinner last night (Nov 10).
Lee added that efforts to improve navigation safety had been intensified through the implementation of the Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS), alongside the development and upgrading of navigational aids such as lighthouses and buoys.
“Among the facilities receiving attention are the lighthouses at Kuala Baram, Tanjung Kidurong and Tanjung Siring.
“In addition, efforts are underway to take over the Kuching Public Marina building from the federal government to serve as the new headquarters of the Sarawak Rivers Board,” he said.
He also highlighted the launch of Seri Batang Ai, Sarawak’s first purpose-built solar-integrated electric boat, as a significant step towards greener river transport.
“On Oct 21, Sarawak Energy received the boat licence and Sarawak River Transport Permit for the vessel’s operation,” he said.
Lee said the ministry would continue advancing infrastructure, connectivity and technological capabilities to build a more competitive and sustainable maritime and river transport sector in Sarawak. — DayakDaily
