KUCHING: The proposal to revive the ferry route has the potential to become a sustainable and value-added complement to Sarawak’s transport ecosystem, provided there are thorough feasibility studies and effective public-private collaboration.
The secretary-general of the Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sarawak (ACCCIS), Datuk Jonathan Chai Voon Tok said that while sea travel is slower than air, a ferry route can complement rather than compete with existing air and land networks.
“It offers advantages in vehicle and cargo movement, tourism diversification, and regional development with the key lies in ensuring commercial viability through well-planned routes, reliable schedules, and integration with road and tourism infrastructure.
“In short, reviving the ferry service could be a strategic and symbolic step toward greater Malaysian connectivity — linking economies, communities, and opportunities across the sea.
He added that a modern ferry service could offer an additional transport mode that connects people, vehicles, and goods directly across the South China Sea.
“It would not only strengthen physical and economic ties between Borneo and the peninsula, but also promote domestic tourism — offering travellers a unique sea voyage experience while opening new routes for logistics and inter-regional commerce,” he said.
He also cited that the ferry could serve as a new economic catalyst for Sarawak, particularly its coastal towns.
“Port towns could benefit from increased visitors flow, transport services, and hospitality demand.
“Local industries — from fisheries and agriculture to crafts and small manufacturing — would gain improved access to new markets, creating jobs and spur local entrepreneurship.
“As such, the idea of reviving the ferry service between Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo is timely and worth serious consideration because such a link could significantly enhance national connectivity, boost tourism, and stimulate trade between the two regions,” he said.
