By WU VUIDE
SEPANGGAR: Sabah Deputy Chief Minister III, Datuk Ewon Benedick, has urged all parties to place Sabah’s interests as a top priority in addressing complaints over congestion at Sepanggar Port.
Ewon, who is also the Minister of Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transport, said that complaints related to congestion at the port involve the entire service supply chain, not only its operations but also activities outside, including the roles of various government agencies and the need for digitalisation of related services.
He made the remarks during discussions with various stakeholders, particularly the operator of Sepanggar Port.
“I visited Sepanggar Port today to hold discussions with its operator and various relevant agencies.
“I was briefed by Sabah Ports Sdn Bhd and DPW Sabah Sdn Bhd as port operators, and also received a briefing from SEDIA on the ongoing Sepanggar Port development projects.
“I was also informed by Suria Capital Holdings about the next phase of the Sepanggar Port expansion plans.
“Data shows a significant increase in import and export cargo throughput at Sepanggar Port, which is a positive indicator of Sabah’s economic activity.
“Issues related to complaints on congestion and efficiency were discussed, covering the entire service chain, not only within the port but also outside it, ranging from the roles of various agencies to the need for digitalisation,” he said.
Ewon will chair several follow-up discussions before submitting a Cabinet paper to obtain decisions on proposed interim solutions while awaiting the completion of long-term solutions, namely the port expansion.
“I have stated that all parties must place ‘Sabah interest’ as the priority, and that this can only be addressed through a ‘Sabah First team’ that is willing to be part of the solution.
“With this approach, I am confident that we can address the congestion issue more effectively,” he said.
Ewon (right), during the visit at Sepanggar Port.
