Sarawak proposes development of O&G-based support services hub in Miri, says Premier

MIRI (April 25): The Sarawak government is planning to develop oil and gas-based support services in Miri to cater to production activities in surrounding waters, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

He said the proposed initiative, estimated to cost about RM30 million, aims to facilitate essential services required by the oil and gas industry, particularly in northern Sarawak.

“We are going to propose the development of Miri oil and gas-based support services, catering for Miri production waters.

“This means we will facilitate the services required in oil and gas, particularly in this part of Sarawak.

“The cost is about RM30 million. The funds alone are not the issue, but what we need is investment. We have the means to do it,” he said during a site visit to the Kuala Baram Delta dredging project here.

The proposed services hub is expected to complement the ongoing development of the Miri deep-sea port, strengthening its role in supporting offshore oil and gas activities while boosting the northern region’s economic ecosystem.

The Premier’s visit was held to assess progress of the RM208.9 million Kuala Baram Delta access channel dredging project, which is currently ahead of schedule.

The project, involving bund construction, dredging works and associated marine infrastructure, is targeted for full completion by the fourth quarter of 2026.

Abang Johari expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of implementation, commending Miri Port, consultants and contractors for their commitment to delivering the project efficiently.

He said the project is a key infrastructure initiative aimed at strengthening Sarawak’s maritime capabilities, including enabling access for larger vessels and improving the efficiency of port and logistics operations.

“The channel will be safer and clearer once completed, allowing vessels to access the port more efficiently,” he said, referring to the construction of training bunds along the North and South banks to stabilise sediment movement and reduce siltation.

Beyond its engineering scope, he said the project is expected to generate employment opportunities, particularly for local communities, while supporting the growth of shipping, logistics and other maritime-related sectors.

He added that improved maritime access would further catalyse economic and commercial activities in northern Sarawak, positioning Miri as a more vibrant hub for trade, logistics and investment.

In the longer term, Abang Johari said the port would serve as a northern export gateway, complementing existing facilities in Bintulu while focusing more on commodity-based cargo.

The project also aligns with Sarawak’s Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, supporting the state’s long-term vision for inclusive and sustainable growth, particularly in port development.

Environmental considerations remain a priority, with measures such as sediment management and continuous monitoring in place to safeguard the marine ecosystem, alongside the use of modern dredging technologies and sustainable construction practices.

Also present during the visit were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, State Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, Miri Port Authority board chairman Dato Paulus Palu Gumbang, and other state leaders and officials.