By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, May 7: Tanjong Batu assemblyman Johnny Pang has proposed the establishment of a Free Trade Zone at Bintulu Port, which would be a game changer for Sarawak’s economy.
Pang stated that by providing streamlined customs regulations and attractive tax incentives, the aforementioned zone will attract global businesses, lowering operational costs and increasing competitiveness in international trade.
“The strategic location of Bintulu, combined with its robust infrastructure, makes it the ideal site for such a pioneering economic initiative.
“This Free Trade Zone promises not only to attract a wide array of industries but also to stimulate local economic growth and create numerous high-quality jobs,” he said when presenting his debate on the Sarawak Ports Authority Bill 2024 during the Third Term of the 19th Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) sitting, which was held today at the DUS complex here.
Pang went on to say that the establishment of a Free Trade Zone will increase demand for local services and boost various sectors of our economy, including logistics and manufacturing.
“The influx of businesses will necessitate advanced technological adoption and infrastructural upgrades, ensuring that Bintulu, and Sarawak at large, becomes a key player in the Asia-Pacific trade network.
“In line with this, I propose transferring the management of significant lands and resources from Bintulu Port Authority to the Bintulu Development Authority (BDA).
“This strategic move is essential to capitalise fully on Bintulu’s economic potential and to support the Free Trade Zone’s development, streamlining regulatory processes and leveraging BDA’s expertise in managing and developing industrial and commercial infrastructure,” he added.
The Tanjong Batu assemblyman also highlighted that by establishing the Sarawak Ports Authority, the state is consolidating its efforts to manage, regulate, and administer all ports under one unified and efficient authority.
“This centralisation is not merely administrative; it is a strategic alignment of our resources to catapult our state into a major maritime hub in the Asia-Pacific region,” he said.
Pang further remarked that he gave his full support to the Sarawak Ports Authority Bill 2024. — DayakDaily
