KOTA KINABALU (July 17): Sabah Ports Sdn Bhd (SPSB) affirmed its commitment to improve productivity, particularly container handling rate and will reestablish its window berthing system to better manage vessel arrivals.
SPSB will further implement effective planning to provide ample time for forwarders to truck in containers to the port.
These measures were highlighted during SPSB’s recent industry dialogue with logistics associations and business chambers to discuss the congestion at Sapangar Bay Container Port (SBCP).
Key issues discussed included strategies to minimize berth waiting time for efficient vessel handling and berth allocation, upgrading of port equipment at SBCP and Tawau Port and manpower issues. The forum further highlighted the role of cargo owners in expediting container clearance from the yard and the need for coordination with the Customs Department to accelerate documentation processes.
The meeting acknowledged that due to the port’s recent unprecedented growth, including a record high in cargo handled in May 2024 and double-digit growth year-to-date, the port’s yard is facing significant space limitations, resulting in high yard utilization.
Stakeholders stressed that land expansion is crucial for the port to operate efficiently and handle future growth, highlighting the need for the SBCP expansion to remain on track and additional yard space to be secured.
SPSB assured that the company will study all feedback and is working closely with the government and state agencies to effectively implement its plans. SPSB recognizes the role of the stakeholders as valuable advisors and appreciates their cooperation in jointly
addressing these challenges.
SPSB further expresses its deep appreciation to the Ministry of Public Works Sabah, the Ministry of Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Sabah and the Sabah Logistics Council for their dedicated efforts, which reflects the Government’s commitment to resolving the challenges faced by SBCP.
Among those who attended the dialogue were representatives from the Ministry of Public Works Sabah, Royal Malaysian Customs Department, Sabah Shipping Agents Association, Sabah Forwarding and Logistics Association, Kota Kinabalu Container Haulier Association, Malaysian International Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Federation of Sabah Industries, Sabah West Coast Lorry Transportation Association and Kibing Group.
Reference: https://www.theborneopost.com/2024/07/17/sabah-ports-holds-industry-dialogue-to-address-congestion/