BALAI RINGIN: The Royal Malaysian Navy’s (RMN) Fourth Naval Regional Headquarters (Mawilla 4), initially planned for construction in Bintulu, will now be built in Muara Tebas, Kuching.
This was confirmed by Defence Force Chief General Datuk Mohd Nizam Jaffar at a press conference during his official visit to Balai Ringin Tactical Headquarters today.
He added that the Sarawak government had approved the relocation of the state’s first naval base from Bintulu to Muara Tebas.
“The decision was made after considering several factors, including the need for a favourable base environment and a strategic sea location that facilitates operations.
“Cost efficiency also played a role in the move. If the base were in Bintulu, maintenance costs would be higher.
“We also took into account the need to study infrastructure and facilities at the new site,” he said.
Nizam added that the naval base in Muara Tebas would be developed as a modern facility.
“It will not be like the main base in Lumut, which is much larger. The size, personnel and equipment here will differ,” he said.
A visit to the new site in Muara Tebas will be conducted soon before discussions on the next steps can take place.
“We need to make this a reality as soon as possible because Sarawak requires a naval base,” he said.
Two years ago, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said the decision to establish a base in Bintulu was based on security priorities and the need to safeguard national assets.
At the time, he noted that Bintulu remains a strategic location due to its proximity to the Beting Patinggi Ali (or Luconia Shoals) in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of the South China Sea, and the Kasawari Gas Field area.
