Anwar believes Sarawak can handle Bintulu Port efficiently

KUCHING, 16 September: Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim reaffirmed confidence in the ability of the Government of Sarawak to manage and operate Bintulu Port efficiently after formal takeover from the Federal Government.

He said the surrender was a significant achievement in implementing the 1963 Malaysia Agreement (MA63), as well as recognizing Sarawak's rights and status as Malaysia's founding partner.

"I reiterate the confidence of the Federal Government that the Sarawak Government has the expertise and capacity to manage and operate Bintulu Port efficiently and best, Insya Allah", he said in a Facebook post today.

Anwar along with Sarawak Prime Minister, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg witnessed the handover of Federal Government Newsletter by Transport Minister, Anthony Loke to Deputy Prime Minister of Sarawak, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embassy at Kenamaan Orang Terminal, Kuching International Airport (LTAK), here today.

The port of Bintulu is now officially under the administration of the Government of Sarawak effective 1 September 2026 after the process of acquisition from the Federal Government has been completed.

The acquisition involved RM1.8 billion compensation paid by the Sarawak Government to the Federal Government while port status changed from a federal port to a state port following the enactment of Act 858 and Act 859.

The Bintulu Port Board was also dissolved and port authority functions were now taken over by the Bintulu Port Authority (Sarawak), a state statutory body established on 1 September 2024.

The port is among Sarawak's strategic infrastructure, particularly in supporting industrial activities and export of liquefied natural gas (LNG). - TVS