MIRI: The Batang Baram Delta project is set to unlock a new economic frontier in northern Sarawak, with natural land formation expected to drive investment, industrial growth and maritime activity in this city.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said sediment accumulation along the coastline will gradually create new land, positioning the area as a strategic export gateway.
Drawing a comparison with Shanghai’s expansive port development, Abang Johari said Miri could begin on a smaller scale, describing it as a “mini Shanghai” with potential for both industrial and commercial activities on the newly formed land.
“Meaning Miri will have a newborn ‘baby’ because of the accumulation of deposits, and that will attract investment in Miri. The hinterland will use this port as an exit point,” he told a press conference during a site visit to the dredging and associated works project here today (Apr 25).
He added that the long-term economic impact of the project would position Miri as a strategic export hub, complementing existing ports in the state.
“I think in the longer term, this port will give economic benefit to Miri as the northern exit export point. Besides Bintulu, which handles a different type of cargo, this one will focus more on commodities,” he said.
Abang Johari noted that the development is supported by ongoing dredging and coastal engineering works, including the construction of wave breakers along the North Bank and South Bank to stabilise sediment movement and facilitate land growth.
He said that the improved coastal conditions would not only enable land formation but also ensure a safer and more efficient navigation channel for vessels.
“With the wave breakers on both sides, the channel will be safe from siltation, meaning there will be no more deposits blocking the channel,” he said, adding that both large and small vessels would be able to operate effectively.
Abang Johari also expressed confidence that the project would continue to make steady progress ahead of the monsoon season, following encouraging developments observed during the site inspection.
Beyond its role as an export hub, Abang Johari said the newly formed land would support industrial activities, including shipbuilding and repair, through the establishment of more structured facilities.
“At the moment, our boat building is not structured, making it difficult to maintain quality and conduct audits. With this development, we can create proper facilities for shipbuilding and ship repair,” he said.
He added that the port’s proximity to offshore oil and gas fields would further enhance its economic value, with plans underway to develop support services for the sector in northern Sarawak.
Meanwhile, according to a press release, the RM208.9 million project has achieved about 55 per cent physical progress and is currently ahead of schedule, with completion targeted by the fourth quarter of 2026.
The project includes deepening the access channel to minus five metres, constructing two six-kilometre-long training bunds on both sides to stabilise sediment movement, and upgrading navigational aids to improve maritime safety.
Upon completion, it is expected to significantly enhance port operations and lay a strong foundation for Miri’s growth as a key maritime, logistics and export hub in northern Sarawak.
