MIRI: The expansion of Miri Sea Port marks a new chapter in the state’s economic development, with the facility expected to emerge as a strategic industrial hub in northern Sarawak.

Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, said the project is progressing well and is on track to reach a significant milestone before the monsoon season this year.

“Based on our observations, the port’s progress has been very positive, and I am confident that before the monsoon season, we will achieve a significant level of development,” he said at a press conference following an official visit to the Miri Port dredging project site on Saturday.

He added that the development of the North Bank and South Bank structures will increase sea depth to up to 10 metres, enabling the port to accommodate larger vessels, including cruise ships.

“Once the North Bank and South Bank are completed, the depth can reach 10 metres, which is sufficient for large vessels, including cruise ships,” he explained.

He further noted that the construction of breakwaters will not only reduce wave impact but also has the potential to create new coastal land through natural sedimentation processes.

“We will see new land forming and expanding over time. This is the concept we refer to as a ‘mini Shanghai’ in Miri,” he said.

He explained that the newly formed areas could be developed into industrial and commercial hubs, thereby attracting investment and stimulating local economic growth.

In addition, the port is expected to serve as a key gateway for the northern interior of Sarawak, complementing Bintulu’s role as an existing export hub.

In a related development, the project is also set to create opportunities for the local shipbuilding and shipyard industries to penetrate international markets, including the Middle East and Australia.

“With more structured facilities, we can enhance shipbuilding quality and expand export markets,” he said.

He added that the development will also support the oil and gas industry through the provision of logistics facilities and support services.

The RM208.9 million project has currently achieved approximately 55 per cent physical progress and is ahead of schedule, with full completion targeted by the fourth quarter of 2026.

Also present were Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Sarawak Minister for Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, Sarawak Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, Deputy Minister for Infrastructure and Port Development Datuk Ir Aidel Lariwoo, Miri Port Authority Chairman Dato Paulus Palu Gumbang, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Port Development Datu Chiew Chee Yau, as well as heads of relevant departments. -UKASnews

Translator: Uilson Ng