Sandakan port must not be neglected – Frankie
By Datuk Poon Ming Fung @ Frankie
SANDAKAN: I take note of the recent statement by YB Datuk Ewon Benedict, Deputy Chief Minister of Sabah, on interim measures to resolve congestion at Sepanggar Port. While such measures are welcomed, I urge the Minister and the Sabah State Government to also give immediate and serious attention to the growing crisis at Sandakan Port.
Sandakan Port has recently encountered very serious operational problems, resulting in unnecessary and prolonged delays in the unloading of containers. This situation is particularly alarming as we approach the Chinese New Year period, a peak season for trade, retail supply, and consumer demand.
These delays have:
– Increased logistics and storage costs
– Disrupted business supply chains
– Burdened traders, SMEs, and consumers
– Further dampened local economic activity
If left unresolved, the situation will add to rising costs of living, weaken business confidence, and slow Sandakan’s economic recovery.
The State Government must urgently invest time, resources, and policy attention to:
– Resolve operational inefficiencies at Sandakan Port
– Improve port management and coordination
– Enhance infrastructure, equipment, and manpower
– Ensure fair and efficient allocation of berthing and unloading schedules
Failure to act decisively risks creating a perception that these bottlenecks are structural and systemic, effectively stifling Sandakan’s economy rather than supporting it.
Sandakan is one of Sabah’s key economic pillars—serving trade, fisheries, manufacturing, tourism, and cross-border commerce. Yet, since 2020, Sandakan increasingly appears neglected in terms of infrastructure upgrading, logistics planning, and strategic economic focus.
Development and problem-solving efforts must not be concentrated only in Kota Kinabalu or the west coast. Balanced regional development requires that Sandakan’s needs be addressed with the same urgency and seriousness.
A functional, efficient port is not a luxury—it is a basic economic necessity. Improving Sandakan Port will directly support businesses, protect jobs, stabilise prices, and restore confidence in Sandakan’s future.
I urge the Sabah State Government to act swiftly and transparently, engage relevant stakeholders, and present a clear action plan to enhance Sandakan Port, for the benefit of Sandakan, Sabah, and the wider state economy.
