KUCHING: Sarawak’s ownership of strategic transport assets such as Bintulu Port, the planned Tanjung Embang Deep Sea Port and the future expansion of Air Borneo will play a decisive role in determining the state’s economic destiny.
Economic analyst Datuk Peter Minos described the acquisition of Bintulu Port for RM1.8 billion as a landmark move that gives Sarawak greater control over one of its most important economic gateways.
“Bintulu Port is big and is now Sarawak’s own. It means a lot to Sarawak because it connects the state to the rest of the world in a big way,” he said.
According to Minos, the port strengthens Sarawak’s trade links with major economies such as Japan, South Korea and China, while also serving neighbouring ASEAN countries including Thailand, the Philippines and Indonesia.
He stressed that strong connectivity is essential if Sarawak is to sustain its economic transformation.
“For Sarawak to move ahead, it must have connectivity through the sea and the air. That is a must,” he said.
Minos noted that the state government’s plan to develop the Tanjung Embang Deep Sea Port in Asajaya complements Bintulu Port by creating another major maritime gateway in southern Sarawak, while Bintulu Port continues serving the northern region.
He also expressed confidence that Air Borneo will eventually emerge as a strong regional carrier despite expected initial challenges.
Drawing comparisons with AirAsia’s early years, Minos said every airline faces teething problems before achieving success.
“I believe Air Borneo will expand and grow. Like AirAsia in the beginning, it will overcome its initial challenges and eventually soar, not just within Malaysia but to the world,” he said.
He viewed the simultaneous development of ports and aviation as evidence that Sarawak is opening itself to greater international engagement.
“This is the direction Sarawak must take if it wants to go far. It may appear ambitious, but ambition creates ideas for better and bigger things,” he said.
Minos also emphasised that Sarawak must remain in control of its strategic assets and natural resources.
“That is the only way Sarawak can shape and determine its own destiny and future,” he said.
He added that Sarawak’s geographical position near the heart of ASEAN offers a natural competitive advantage, making investments in Bintulu Port, the proposed Tanjung Embang Port and Air Borneo part of a broader long-term strategy to position the state as a regional logistics and transportation hub.
