Uggah hopeful RM208m dredging project finishes earlier

KUCHING: A proposed dredging project, which will deepen the access channel to Miri Port and build training bunds in Batang Baram Delta, is expected to be completed by March 2027.

Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas however wishes to see the project completed earlier than the scheduled 33-month period.

“The project will cost over RM208 million, and I hope they can complete it within 24 months, ahead of the schedule,” he said after witnessing a contract signing ceremony for the project by Miri Port Authority here on Tuesday (June 18).

He added that the project, which will also see the construction of bunds in deep water of over 25m will allow Kuala Baram to be a strategic and suitable location to develop a deep sea port.

“The dredging project will also benefit Sarawak’s northern region greatly by improving shipping efficiency due to the deeper access channel and the price of goods caused by shipping costs could be lowered.

“It will also spur economic development and create more job opportunities in the northern region and most importantly, bring about the development of other related infrastructure and amenities, improving the livelihood of the people within the region and contributing towards Sarawak’s economic growth,” he said.

“I foresee Kuala Baram will be a future deep sea port, capable to handle all types of cargoes, from general cargoes like containers to liquid and dry bulk cargoes, as well as cruise vessels.

“With these, there will be multiple simulation to other sectors of the economy such as shipbuilding, ship repairs, supply base and others.”

In the meantime, Transport Minister cum Senadin assemblyman Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin said the project will contribute further to the shipbuilding industry in the northern region.

“Once this channel deepens we will be able to build bigger ships, so that the shipbuilding industry in Miri will continue to flourish.

“At the same time, it will also help with the development of our oil and gas alongside the tourism industry in Miri. Meaning to say that the cruise ships can come to Miri if the channel deepens,” he said. Present during the press conference were Deputy Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Sebastian Ting, Deputy Minister of Women, Early Childhood and Community Well-being Development Datuk Rosey Yunus and Chairman of Miri Port Authority Datuk Paulus Palu Gumbang .