Bintulu Port officially transitions from federal to Sarawak port

KUCHING: Bintulu Port’s transition from federal to state jurisdiction was formally marked today (Sept 16), completing a major transfer of authority over one of Sarawak’s key trade and logistics gateways.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg witnessed the symbolic handover, with Transport Minister Anthony Loke representing the Federal Government and Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas receiving the port on behalf of the Sarawak Government.

The transition itself took effect on Sept 1 following the enactment of the Declaration of an Area in the Bintulu District to be a Federal Port (Repeal) Act 2024 and the Bintulu Port Authority (Dissolution) Act 2024.

The change places regulatory oversight of Bintulu Port under Sarawak while maintaining continuity in its commercial and operational functions.

In an earlier Bursa Malaysia filing, Bintulu Port Holdings Bhd (BPHB) said Bintulu Port Sdn Bhd (BPSB) would continue to operate, manage and develop the port following the jurisdictional change.

BPSB’s operations are currently governed by a heads of agreement signed on July 27 between the Sarawak Government, Bintulu Port Authority (Sarawak) and BPSB, pending the execution of the Port Operation Concession Agreement.

The Sarawak Ministry of Infrastructure and Port Development had also informed BPSB in June that the state government had approved in principle its appointment as port operator under the Port Authorities Ordinance, 1961.

BPHB had previously assured customers, port users and other stakeholders that the transition would not disrupt day-to-day operations or services.

BPSB will remain the operator, with commercial and port activities continuing under Sarawak’s regulatory framework.

BPHB described the transition as a significant milestone for both the company and BPSB, adding that it would continue working with the Sarawak Government, Bintulu Port Authority (Sarawak) and relevant authorities to ensure operational stability and continuity.

The handover gives Sarawak direct jurisdiction over a strategic maritime gateway supporting the state’s industrial, energy and export activities.