The Sarawak government continues to strengthen connectivity and improve infrastructure to address high logistics and transportation costs across the state.
Transport Deputy Minister (Riverine and Marine) Datuk Henry Harry Jinep said shipping and logistics costs in Sarawak vary by location depending on port access, road connectivity and cargo volume.
He said urban centres like Kuching, Sibu, Bintulu and Miri generally have lower costs, while interior areas such as Kapit face higher expenses due to multiple transport stages involving sea, road and river networks.
“The cost of basic goods in Sarawak is often higher due to the long distances involved, challenging terrain, river crossings, dispersed rural settlements, as well as limitations in certain areas such as shallow ports and river channels.
“These factors can restrict vessel movement, delay delivery schedules, and increase overall operating costs,” he said.
He was responding to Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap during Q&A session today.
On efforts to improve logistics efficiency, he said multiple key initiative projects are being implemented to ensure faster, more reliable and cost-efficient movement of goods.
He added the initiatives include the development of the coastal road network integrated with major bridge and river-crossing projects to reduce reliance on ferry services and shorten travel time.
“Rural connectivity is also being strengthened through upgrades under the Pan Borneo Highway, the Second Trunk Road and related road expansion works,” he added.
He also said the Sarawak Port Master Plan is also being implemented along with port modernisations, development of deep-sea and strategic port facilities, including the proposed Tanjung Embang Deep Sea Port, alongside improvements to existing ports.
He added that riverine infrastructure and navigation systems are also being enhanced through dredging works, safety upgrades and river accessibility projects to improve connectivity, reduce transport delays and support the movement of essential goods, contributing to long-term economic growth.
