Anuar Ismail – Ukas photo
BINTULU (Sept 22): Bintulu Port Holdings Berhad (BPHB) president and group chief executive officer Anuar Ismail has pledged to build on the foundation laid by his predecessor as the port enters a new chapter following its historic transition from federal to Sarawak jurisdiction.
Describing the leadership change as a “passing of stewardship”, Anuar said his immediate responsibility is to strengthen Bintulu Port, serve its customers, and maintain close cooperation with state authorities, business partners, and the community.
“Dato Ruslan (Abdul Ghani) has laid a strong foundation, and I am grateful for what he has built. My responsibility now is to build on that foundation,” he said at an appreciation dinner on Monday.
Anuar said the transition of Bintulu Port from a federal port to a Sarawak port, which took legal effect on Sept 1, represented one of the most important chapters in the port’s history.
He said the transition had been a significant and complex process that required strong leadership, patience, teamwork, and cooperation among various parties.
He also acknowledged the support and cooperation of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Port Development, State Financial Secretary, State Attorney General, Bintulu Port Authority Sarawak (BPAS), and other relevant agencies throughout the process.
“It is through this spirit of cooperation and partnership that we have reached this important milestone together. For that, we are truly grateful,” he said.
Anuar, who assumed the president and group CEO position on Aug 17, said BPHB would continue working with its stakeholders to make Bintulu Port stronger and more competitive while playing a greater role in Sarawak’s future.
The dinner also paid tribute to Ruslan, who served BPHB for four years.
Anuar said Ruslan had played an important role in Bintulu Port’s history, particularly during the transition to state jurisdiction.
He also called on the authorities, customers, port users, and business partners to continue working together to strengthen the port.
“A strong port is not built by the port alone. It is built together. Let us continue to work together to build an even stronger Bintulu Port for Sarawak,” he added.