BINTULU: The takeover of Bintulu Port by the Sarawak government, effective Sept 1, 2026, reflects the close cooperation and mutual understanding between the Sarawak and federal governments in resolving a transition process that has taken several years.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said the successful completion of the takeover demonstrated that complex matters could be resolved through cooperation and mutual understanding between both governments.
He said three key matters agreed upon during the transition process had been fulfilled such as the takeover of all Bintulu Port Authority (BPA) staff, the return of part of the assets and payment for the release of Bintulu Port assets.
“First, we are taking over all the staff of the Bintulu Port Authority.
“Second, part of the Bintulu Port Authority’s assets will be returned, and third, we are making payment for the release of the Bintulu Port assets.
“All of these have been fulfilled. That is why today the Malaysian Ministry of Transport (MOT) has confirmed that the port is being handed over to Sarawak,” he said this when met by the media after the farewell ceremony for the Bintulu Port Authority from the Ministry of Transport, which was also attended by Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook, here yesterday.
Uggah, who is also the Minister of Finance and New Economy II, said the process had not been easy as it involved various matters relating to assets and land, finances, legal issues, staffing, staff welfare, due diligence and port by-laws.
According to him, these matters were resolved through negotiations, patience and mutual respect between the federal and Sarawak governments.
The transition process has a long history, beginning with the announcement by the Sarawak Premier on Jan 30, 2023, followed by the Prime Minister’s announcement in Parliament on Oct 13, 2023.
It continued with the exchange of the Memorandum of Understanding on March 22, 2024, and the repeal of the Bintulu Port Authority Act in Parliament on July 17, 2024.
An acquisition value of RM1.8 billion was agreed upon on Feb 4, 2026, followed by the Cheque Handover Ceremony on June 21, 2026.
The Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development said the takeover demonstrated that cooperation and the spirit of Malaysia between the federal and Sarawak governments could resolve issues that were initially highly complex.
Uggah said Bintulu Port would continue to be developed to ensure its role remained significant not only at the national level but also strengthened its position globally.
“For us, when we develop Sarawak, we are also developing Malaysia. What benefits Sarawak will also benefit Malaysia,” he said.
Bintulu Port has developed over 47 years since 1979, evolving from an initial facility supporting the energy industry into a port serving as a trade gateway, industrial catalyst and link between Sarawak’s resources and global markets.
With the handover taking effect on Sept 1, 2026, Bintulu Port will enter a new administrative phase as a strategic asset driven by Sarawak’s aspirations, while continuing to maintain its role for Malaysia.
In the new phase, service efficiency, productivity, safety, integrity and governance will remain priorities to ensure the port stays relevant and retains the confidence of its users.
Bintulu Port is also expected to receive its first EcoPorts certification in September 2026, marking an important step towards strengthening the port’s position in more sustainable management in Southeast Asia.
The takeover marks a new chapter in Bintulu Port’s history, with the 47-year legacy built together with the Malaysian Ministry of Transport now entrusted to Sarawak to continue developing the port as a catalyst for trade, industry and economic growth for both Sarawak and Malaysia.
