Government expands connectivity push to tackle high logistics costs in Sarawak

File photo for illustration purposes. Photo credit: Pixabay

By Dayangku Hidayatul

KUCHING, May 13: The higher cost of basic goods in Sarawak is largely driven by geographical challenges such as long distances, difficult terrain, river crossings, and dispersed rural settlements.

Deputy Minister of Transport (Riverine and Marine) Datuk Henry Harry Jinep added that additional constraints, including shallow ports and river channels in certain areas, further limit vessel movement, delay deliveries, and drive up overall logistics costs.

He said the Sarawak government is continuously strengthening connectivity and upgrading infrastructure to address these challenges.

“This includes the development of roads and bridges, enhancement of port facilities and operational efficiency, improvement of river accessibility, as well as the upgrading of rural transport networks,” he said in response to Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap during a question-and-answer session during the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) sitting today.

Harry added that these initiatives are aimed at ensuring more efficient movement of goods, smoother supply chains, and better access to essential items at more affordable prices for the people.

He explained that logistics refers to the movement of goods from the point of supply to consumers, and in Sarawak’s context, it involves a multi-modal system across road, air, sea, and river networks, shaped by the State’s vast geography and unique terrain. — DayakDaily