Bintulu Port now under Sarawak control in historic MA63 milestone
Bintulu Port now under Sarawak control in historic MA63 milestone
Abang Johari (second left) presents the cheque to Anwar while (from left) Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof and Transport Minister Anthony Loke look on. – Ukas photo
BINTULU (June 21): Sarawak has officially assumed control of Bintulu Port following the transfer of its status from a federal port to a state port, marking a historic milestone in the state’s efforts to strengthen its economic autonomy.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg expressed appreciation to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and the federal government for agreeing to the handover arrangement.
“I would like to record my highest appreciation and gratitude to the Prime Minister, who had just returned from an overseas trip but still made time to come to Sarawak for this historic occasion.
“Thank you very much for handing over the port to us. God willing, we will take good care of this asset,” he said during a cheque presentation ceremony in conjunction with the transfer at Menara Kidurong here.
The federal and Sarawak governments had earlier agreed in principle on a valuation of RM1.8 billion for the state’s acquisition of Bintulu Port.
Abang Johari said the transfer was achieved through mutual agreement between both governments, with Sarawak compensating the federal government for the port assets.
He noted that while there are perceptions that Sarawak is seeking greater control over federal assets, the state’s approach has always been guided by constitutional provisions and financial responsibility.
“We have to put ourselves in the position of the Ministry of Finance because the Sarawak government is paying for the assets of Bintulu Port.
“There are many perceptions that Sarawak wants everything, but that is not the case.
“It all depends on expenditure provisions and what is stipulated under the Federal Constitution,” he said.
Abang Johari also thanked federal and state officials involved in the negotiations, saying the transition reflected close cooperation between both governments.
He said Sarawak would work closely with all stakeholders to ensure the continued growth and modernisation of Bintulu Port in line with evolving economic trends.
The transfer of Bintulu Port is regarded as one of the most significant developments in Sarawak’s ongoing efforts to reclaim rights and responsibilities under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).