By Christopher Lidom
KUCHING, May 26: In 2021, Sarawak port authorities recorded a total throughput of 20.6 million tonnes, an increase of about 4.6 per cent (0.9 million tonnes) in comparison with 19.7 million tonnes for 2020, says Deputy Premier of Sarawak Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
As of April 30, 2022, Sarawak port authorities registered a total throughput of 7.48 million tonnes, an increase of about 8.6 per cent (0.59 million tonnes) in comparison with 6.89 million tonnes over the same period in 2021.
He noted, Kuching Port Authority handled 3.20 million tonnes, an increase of 8.1 per cent (0.24 million tonnes) in comparison with 2.96 million tonnes for the same period in 2021.
“For the same period, Rajang Port Authority handled 0.48 million tonnes, an increase of 4.3 per cent (0.02 million tonnes) from 0.46 million tonnes, and Samalaju Port Authority registered a total of 2.17 million tonnes, an increase of 22.6 per cent (0.4 million tonnes) from 1.77 million tonnes.
“Tanjung Manis Port Authority registered a total throughput of about 0.621 million tonnes in 2022, an increase which is meagre in comparison with the same period (the year before),” said Uggah when delivering his winding-up speech during the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting here today.
Uggah, who is also the Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development, pointed out that with a total throughput of 1.01 million tonnes recorded, Miri Port Authority, however, registered a decrease of 4.7 per cent (0.05 million tonnes) from 1.06 million tonnes.
He explained the decrease was mainly due to the reduction in the export of timber logs, heavy machinery, building materials, furniture and sawn timber to neighbouring countries.
He said the Malaysian economy has been projected to grow by 5.8 per cent in 2022.
“The economic recovery is expected to continue in line with increase in global and domestic demand.
“Cargo volume handled throughout the State ports is expected to grow moderately in the years ahead,” he added. — DayakDaily
