By WU VUIDE
KOTA KINABALU: The passenger ferry service between Kota Kinabalu and Labuan has resumed operations after several years of suspension.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said this route is not merely a logistical move but it is meant for the welfare of the people in Sabah and Labuan.
“This service is not just a means of transportation, but a connector of families, education, tourism, and business ties that have long existed,” he said at the launching ceremony of the jetty and inauguration of the Kota Kinabalu–Labuan passenger ferry at the Kota Kinabalu Port here.
He said that the disruption of services in the past was due to several factors, such as unsafe jetty structures, the withdrawal of fuel subsidies for operators, and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
As an immediate solution, he said, the ferry terminal was relocated from Jesselton Point to Kota Kinabalu Port, and now fully managed by the Kota Kinabalu Port authority.
“This project also received an allocation of RM1.3 million from the Ministry of Federal Territories for improvement works.”
He also thanked all agencies involved, including the Office of Internal Affairs and Research (PHEDNP), the Sabah Ports Authority (LPPS), the Ministry of Works, the Ministry of Federal Territories, and the Suria Group who have worked together to realise this initiative.
Hajiji said that the ferry service is expected to positively impact the state’s tourism sector, ahead of the Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
“It also opens up new opportunities in trade and investment between Sabah and Labuan,” he added.
He emphasised that the ties between Sabah and Labuan go beyond geography, encompassing deep historical, cultural, and social bonds, making this route highly significant.
He said Sabahans work and reside in Labuan and vice versa. Hence, the resumption of this route is very meaningful to many parties.
The public now has more transportation options – whether by air, by road to Menumbok, or directly via express ferry from Kota Kinabalu to Labuan, as in the past.
Hajiji said the launch marks the beginning of a stronger, more efficient, and sustainable maritime transport framework, aligned with the state’s aspirations to provide people-friendly and environmentally friendly facilities for future generations.
He said the State Government will ensure that no one is left behind due to logistical constraints and that infrastructure development will continue to drive inclusive progress.
