KUCHING: The Ministry of Infrastructure and Port Development (MIPD) welcomed Parliament’s confirmation of Bintulu Port’s transfer, stressing the RM1.8-billion valuation was mutually agreed through federal-state negotiations.
The ministry said the clarification was necessary following public confusion and media allegations surrounding the valuation and the terms of Bintulu Port’s impending transfer.
“The RM1.8-billion valuation was reached amicably through constructive engagement between the federal government and the Sarawak government,” the Ministry of Infrastructure and Port Development said in a press statement on Friday (Feb 6).
It said the agreement reflected strong cooperation under the leadership of the Prime Minister and the Premier of Sarawak, anchored on mutual respect within Malaysia’s federal framework.
“The valuation represents the combined value of port assets based on detailed professional assessments and negotiations, and is not an arbitrary or inflated figure,” it said.
The ministry explained that the valuation process involved technical evaluations, historical investments and asset conditions accumulated over decades of port operations.
“Historically, the land allocated for Bintulu Port was alienated to the federal government, with land premiums duly paid to the Sarawak government,” it said.
It added that key infrastructure, including liquefied natural gas and oil terminals, were constructed at the Bintulu Port Authority’s own cost.
“These historical investments form an integral part of the overall valuation and reflect the port’s strategic national and regional importance,” it said.
The transfer of Bintulu Port was described as a critical step towards establishing a central port authority framework in Sarawak.
“This will enable more coordinated port development, operational efficiency and stronger governance across Sarawak’s maritime and logistics ecosystem,” it said.
The ministry stressed the move would strengthen Sarawak’s position as a regional trade, energy and logistics hub within Borneo and Southeast Asia.
“It is fully aligned with Sarawak’s Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030, prioritising modern, integrated infrastructure for sustainable economic growth,” it said.
The ministry said the transition would enhance connectivity, support diversification and deliver long-term benefits to Sarawak and Malaysia.
“We remain committed to responsible stewardship of Sarawak’s ports and continued collaboration with all stakeholders to advance shared prosperity,” it added.
