By Christopher Lidom
KUCHING, May 26: The Sarawak government is committed to prioritising the development of its numerous ports to spur economic activities towards achieving a high income society by 2030, said Deputy Premier of Sarawak Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
Uggah, who is also Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development, said under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP), his Ministry will be embarking on a study to develop a comprehensive masterplan for all of the State’s ports to enhance the efficiency of their services and explore more business opportunities.
“My ministry is also looking into upgrading the port facilities and equipment in stages.
“With the allocation given by the Sarawak government amounting to RM70 million, Kuching Port Authority is acquiring new cranes to improve its container handling performance and productivity at the Senari Terminal,” said Uggah in his speech at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting today.
Apart from that, he added, a Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS) is currently being installed at Kuching Port to enhance the safety of navigation that allows authorities to track and monitor vessel movements within its radar coverage (harbour areas) along Sungai Sarawak.
According to him, the project is funded by the Sarawak government and is expected to be commissioned by 2023.
“My ministry and port authorities, with the strong support from the Sarawak government, will continue to ensure effective and efficient management of the ports’ operational resources and improve port delivery services and explore new areas of business opportunities,” he said. — DayakDaily
