Miri’s deep-sea port reaches 70 pct completion

AI-generated illustration depicting the Kuala Baram deep-sea port access channel project.

By Shikin Louis

KUCHING, April 24: The development of a deep-sea port in Miri, has reached about 70 per cent completion, says Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

He said the decision to construct the port at sea was made after considering long-standing challenges at the Baram river mouth, which is prone to shifting due to tides and sedimentation.

“Previously, the late Tun Pehin Sri Taib Mahmud (former Sarawak Governor) had some reservations because he was concerned that the Baram estuary keeps changing. If we build there, due to tides and siltation, it may shift again.

“Thus, for a proper Miri Port, we have to build it at sea where it will not be affected by changes at the Baram estuary,” he said when speaking at the Majlis Makan Malam Bersama Komuniti Bahagian Miri held at a local hotel in Miri, which was broadcast live by Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) tonight.

He further said the decision to proceed with the project was made about four years ago, with construction now progressing steadily.

“About four years ago, I made the decision to just build the Miri Port at sea. Alhamdulillah, it is now about 70 per cent completed,” he added.

Abang Johari was referring to the RM208.9 million Batang Baram Delta dredging and access channel project at Kuala Baram, which is currently being implemented to improve navigability into the Miri Port area.

The project will deepen the access channel at Kuala Baram for Miri Port, while the construction of two 6km training bunds will allow for effective flushing of the dredged channel.

Once completed, Abang Johari also said the port is expected to strengthen Miri’s position as a regional maritime and tourism hub, including the potential to attract cruise ships.

He said cruise vessels from regional ports such as Singapore, carrying up to 2,000 passengers, could dock in Miri, creating new economic opportunities for the local community.

“This will allow us to promote Miri as a destination for cruise ships. They can come here, and the passengers can spend here, making Miri a tourist attraction,” he emphasised. — DayakDaily