KUALA LUMPUR – The state of Sarawak has formally taken control of Bintulu Port following its transfer from federal jurisdiction, in a significant step towards strengthening the state’s economic autonomy.
Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and the federal government for agreeing to the arrangement, which was reported by The Borneo Post.
“I would like to record my highest appreciation and gratitude to the Prime Minister, who had just returned from an overseas trip but still made time to come to Sarawak for this historic occasion.
“Thank you very much for handing over the port to us. God willing, we will take good care of this asset,” he said during a cheque presentation ceremony held in conjunction with the transfer at Menara Kidurong.
Earlier, both the federal and Sarawak governments had reached an in-principle agreement on a valuation of RM1.8 billion for the state’s acquisition of Bintulu Port. The arrangement forms part of a compensation mechanism in which Sarawak pays the federal government for the port’s assets.
Abang Johari stressed that the transfer was the result of mutual agreement between both administrations, adding that the process was conducted in line with constitutional and financial considerations.
“We have to put ourselves in the position of the Ministry of Finance because the Sarawak government is paying for the assets of Bintulu Port.
“There are many perceptions that Sarawak wants everything, but that is not the case.
“It all depends on expenditure provisions and what is stipulated under the Federal Constitution,” he said.
He also extended appreciation to officials from both levels of government involved in the negotiations, describing the transition as a reflection of strong intergovernmental cooperation.
The Sarawak Premier added that the state would work closely with stakeholders to ensure the continued development and modernisation of Bintulu Port in line with evolving economic needs.
The transfer is widely viewed as a major milestone in Sarawak’s ongoing efforts to reclaim rights and responsibilities under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63). – June 21, 2026