KUCHING: Bintulu Port Holdings Berhad (BPHB) has been urged to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) technology to enhance operational efficiency and strengthen future port management systems.

Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg said the rapid advancement of AI, including generative AI and its latest developments, will transform the global industrial landscape, including the logistics and port sectors.

According to him, global data management systems are expected to evolve over the next five years into a new network known as the AI grid, enabling faster and more integrated information flows without relying entirely on data centres.

“As such, we must adopt this technology, particularly in cargo transaction processes.

“When ships dock at ports, documentation including customs procedures and related processes can be completed promptly, allowing vessels to berth, unload cargo and proceed to their next destination without delay.

“This is how ports will be managed in the future, and we need the expertise in port management to support this transformation,” he said at the BPHB 30th Anniversary Dinner at a leading hotel here on Tuesday.

He added that adopting such technology is crucial for Bintulu Port given its strategic location between the West and the East, connecting routes from Europe, the Suez Canal, India and onwards to East Asia and China.

Beyond digital transformation, Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari said BPHB also has the potential to support the maritime industry’s transition towards the use of green fuels such as methanol and ammonia.

He noted that the capability to provide alternative fuel-based bunkering services would enhance the port’s global competitiveness.

“I am also informed that Sarawak Petchem will develop green methanol, and we are ready to move in that direction,” he said.

Also present were the Sarawak Premier’s daughter Dayang Norjihan, Deputy Premiers of Sarawak Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian, Speaker of the Sarawak Legislative Assembly Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nasar, Minister for Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, Sarawak Minister for Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, Sarawak Secretary and BPHB Chairman Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, Deputy Ministers, President and Group Chief Executive Officer of BPHB Dato Ruslan Abdul Ghani and other distinguished guests. -UKASnews

Prepared by: Ahmad Daniel Faiz
Photo: Jaed Tepus
Translator: Suhaila AW