Minister makes site visit to passenger terminal

SIBU: The site visit made by Transport Minister, Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin to the town’s Passenger Terminal in Jalan Khoo Peng Loong here on Sunday marks a significant milestone in the construction and delivery of floating boat sheds for Wilayah I, II, and III.

According to him, this project, including one floating boat shed at the Sibu Passenger Terminal, is part of the Sarawak government’s initiative to enhance riverine transport infrastructure.

Approved under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP), he said this project has a total scheme value of RM20 million.

“It covers two key locations: Sibu Passenger Terminal and the wharf at Piasau Industrial Estate, Miri. Today, we witness the completion of Phase 1—the boat shed at Sibu Passenger Terminal.

“The construction period spanned eight months and 18 days, beginning on Dec 9 last year, with completion on Sept 7 this year. The project’s contract sum is RM904,255, carried out by Zul Construction Company.

“The floating boat sheds are robust and durable, featuring floating platforms made from 22 concrete boxes, metal frames, roofing, guide piles, gangways, fencing, rubber fenders, solar flood lights, marine lanterns, and wood composite plastic (WPC) flooring.

He highlighted that this project provides secure storage and maintenance for enforcement boats, enhancing the safety and efficiency of river patrols and emergency response.

It is part of a larger plan to improve river transport, he stressed, benefitting commuters and businesses, and connecting communities for better access to essential services.

“My Ministry is committed to completing this project on time and to the highest standards, supporting Sarawak’s river transport system. I express my gratitude to the Sarawak Rivers Board (SRB) and Zul Construction Company for their efforts,” Lee added.

Among those accompanying Lee for the site visit were Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government, Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee and SRB controller, Lt Kol (R) Ding Tiew Wong.