Prime Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg (seventh right) is seen during a photo opportunity with other guests at the event. Abu Bakar is seventh left.
BINTULU (September 24): Bintulu Port will adopt cutting-edge innovations such as artificial intelligence (AI) and automation to improve both efficiency and sustainability, said Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki.
Bintulu Port Holdings Berhad Chairman said several exciting milestones for the port will mark significant progress.
He cited the first as the partnership with Giga Shipping, which enabled the handling of ro-ro (roll-on/roll-off) vehicles at the new Bintulu Automotive Terminal.
“This collaboration is a key milestone in our journey to consolidate Bintulu Port as a leading Ro-Ro transshipment hub, a goal we are working diligently towards.
“We are then collaborating with Raw Energy on the handling of hybrid tropical grass pellets, an innovative and carbon-neutral biomass cargo,” he said at the official launch of the Borneo Oil and Gas (BOG) supply base yesterday.
He explained that this partnership reflects Bintulu Port’s commitment to sustainability and setting new standards in renewable energy.
Abu Bakar, who is the state secretary, said the port was also collaborating with Surbana Jurong in Singapore.
“Their expertise in industrial and port development will be critical as we work to improve the Bintulu and Samalaju ports, particularly as we plan for future growth, including the development of free zones,” he said.
He noted that the port is also working with Asas Stabil to use satellite technology to study how global warming affects port operations.
“This collaboration will help us become more resilient and better prepared for the challenges of climate change.
“These initiatives reflect our forward-thinking approach and our commitment to innovation and sustainability,” he said.
Bintulu Port Group is also expanding its maritime services capabilities to support offshore oil and gas activities, he said, to ensure its continued role as a key player in the sector.
“We are expanding the existing container terminal in Bintulu and plan to establish a new terminal at Samalaju Port to meet the growing cargo demand.
“These improvements will enable us to meet future growth and strengthen our role as a strategic logistics centre in the region,” he said.
Furthermore, he said the development of free zones in the two ports is expected to boost economic growth and attract more investment to the region.
“Another key initiative is the implementation of Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) solutions at Samalaju Port, reinforcing the commitment to reduce carbon emissions and promote a greener future.
“Going forward, we are also undertaking land reclamation efforts to double or even triple the size of existing ports over the next 50 years to ensure we are prepared to meet the long-term demands of the industry,” he said.
In line with Sarawak’s green energy and green economy development, he said Bintulu Port has been recognised with the prestigious Bureau Veritas Green Certification.
“We envision the supply base not only as a cornerstone of today’s energy sector, but also as a pioneering force in the transition to sustainable energy solutions,” he said.
Abu Bakar also highlighted the transformation of Bintulu Port since its establishment on January 1, 1983.
Recognised globally as the third largest liquefied natural gas (LNG) export terminal, Bintulu Port is, he said, the main gateway to East Malaysia.
To date, the port has successfully facilitated more than 13,130 LNG shipments.
“I would like to express our sincere appreciation to the Royal Malaysian Customs for granting us the first Sarawak Petroleum Supply Base Licence under Section 77B, making us the third in Malaysia to receive this licence and the fourth in the country to operate as a supply base.
“We are also deeply grateful to the Sarawak government, the Ministry of Finance and all relevant agencies for their unwavering support and collaboration,” he added.
