KUCHING: The Sarawak Government is planning the construction of a modern terminal for international cruise ships in the Damai area as a strategic move to strengthen the state’s tourism sector, particularly in northern Kuching.
Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Coordinator for Regional Development, DBKU and Islamic Affairs), Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, said the project is expected to have a significant impact on the development of the Damai area, which is rapidly emerging as a major tourism destination.
According to him, the Damai area, which is home to Mount Santubong and various well-known resorts, has been identified as a suitable location for the development of the terminal by the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC).
“Through this development, Sarawak will be able to receive international cruise ships carrying between 2,000 and 6,000 tourists per voyage.
“Previously, cruise ships did not make Sarawak a stopover destination due to the lack of deep-sea port facilities,” he said.
He said this to reporters when met at the Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2026 celebration at the Waterfront Hotel today.
He explained that the Damai area has strong potential to be developed as a new gateway for international tourists to the state.
Dr Abdul Rahman, who is also the Pantai Damai assemblyman, said that if the terminal project can be completed within two to three years, the government expects a significant increase in the number of tourists to Damai and its surrounding areas.
At the same time, he said the government also plans to upgrade the main road infrastructure to Damai to ensure more comfortable and efficient connectivity for both tourists and local residents.
“The identified development location is at the Damai Peninsula near Kem Permai, while the existing Kem Damai will be retained.
“In this regard, Jalan Sultan Tengah, spanning 22.4 kilometres, will be upgraded from a single-lane road to a dual two-way carriageway, complete with bicycle lanes, pedestrian walkways, and an Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) route,” he said.
Commenting on the current progress of the project, he informed that a feasibility study is currently being carried out by SEDC to assess the suitability of the location as well as the technical aspects of the port development.
He added that the project is expected to commence either at the end of this year or early 2027, subject to all plans proceeding smoothly.
