Sarawak Invests RM1.8 Billion to Take Over Bintulu Port — Securing the State’s Economic Core
Did you know? The Sarawak government has officially taken over Bintulu Port, investing RM1.8 billion to acquire the majority stake in the Bintulu Port Authority. This move is more than just a transfer of assets—it marks a strategic milestone in shaping Sarawak’s overall economic landscape.
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Bintulu Port — Key Highlights
Port Overview
• Authority: Bintulu Port Authority
• Acquirer: Sarawak Government
• Investment Amount: RM1.8 billion
• Strategic Significance: Boost Sarawak’s economic growth and enhance port autonomy
• Legal Basis: Repeal of the 1981 Bintulu Port Authority Act, via the 2024 Federal Ports (Repeal) Act and the 2024 Bintulu Port Authority (Dissolution) Act
• Timeline: Legislation passed by Parliament on 17 July 2024
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Strategic Takeover
• Sarawak Deputy Premier Douglas said: “Bintulu Port Authority now belongs to us. The negotiations are complete, the price is fair, and it reflects the Prime Minister’s wisdom.”
• The acquisition, after years of negotiation, is a major milestone in Sarawak’s economic development
• Following the takeover, Sarawak assumes full control of the port’s rights, responsibilities, obligations, and liabilities
Economic Boost
• Enhanced port revenues and logistics capacity
• Strengthens Sarawak’s fiscal performance—state revenue rose from RM6.5 billion in 2017 to RM14.2 billion in 2024
• Improves regional economic competitiveness, consolidating Sarawak’s position within Malaysia and ASEAN
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Sarawak’s Future Development Plans
1. Ports & Logistics: Expand berths and logistics warehouses; strengthen trade connections
2. Aviation & Transportation: Launch Sarawak Airlines (AirBorneo); improve flight connectivity to remote areas
3. Finance & Investment: Acquisition of Affin Bank; establishment of a sovereign wealth fund; support for SMEs
4. Energy & Green Development: Control hydroelectric power; promote green energy and low-carbon industries
5. Education & Talent Development: Train talent in ports, logistics, aviation, and green energy sectors
6. Community & Urban Development: Enhance housing, commercial areas, and public amenities to build self-sustaining communities
7. Regional & International Cooperation: Strengthen trade, logistics, and investment with ASEAN partners
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Strategic Significance
• Full control of Bintulu Port enhances Sarawak’s economic autonomy
• Drives growth in logistics, industry, and trade
• Supports urban and industrial expansion for the future
• Establishes a new regional economic hub
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📍 Bintulu Port — More Than Just a Port
It is a new engine for Sarawak’s economic growth, a key part of the state government’s strategic vision, and a symbol of Sarawak’s strength and autonomy in Malaysia and the ASEAN region.
What new opportunities do you think will emerge for Sarawak’s economic growth now that it fully controls Bintulu Port?
