New law will reform, empower port operations

BY LEONG Z-KEEN

THE enactment of Sarawak Ports Authority aims to ensure better coordination, efficiency and effectiveness in governing the local ports.

Murum assemblyman, Kennedy Chukpai Ugon said the Sarawak Ports Authority Bill, once passed would help in resource optimisation and eliminating bottleneck in operations by having a single body overseeing the workflow.

“The Bill aims to reform the governance structure and regulatory framework of port operations in Sarawak.”

“This centralised approach will ensure consistency in standards, procedures, and practices across all ports, thereby enhancing the safety, security, and compliance with international maritime regulations.

“The requirements are crucial if we want to attract investors, shipping companies and trading partners into our ports,” he affirmed.

He commented this during the debate on the Sarawak Ports Authority Bill in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) yesterday.

In addition, Chukpai also mentioned that the Bill would include provisions from private companies to further improve the operation efficiency.

“Through privatisation, we can bring in much needed expertise, innovation, and capital investments for the ports.”

“Moreover, this move will also benefit stakeholders and the ports by leveraging market forces to improve operations,” he said.

Chukpai also stated the Bill could empower Sarawak Ports Authority to manage and administer port related activities from operators’ licensing to overseeing port undertakings.