Sabah wants to build new port in Kudat

KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah government will continue with its plans to build a new port in Kudat district to boost the local economy and state revenue.

Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin said the project had been delayed for too long and Kudat located in the Sabah northern region had the potential to be developed due to its strategic location.

"I have discussed this matter with the chief minister and conveyed the decision to continue with the plan.

"We hope the federal government not only agrees, but will also provide funds to implement the project," he said during the Sabah Ports Authority (SPA) Outstanding Service Award 2021 at the Sabah International Convention Center (SICC) on Tuesday.

Bung Moktar, who is also the state works minister, was optimistic that the plan would have spillover effect of developments to Kudat's neighbouring districts such as Kota Marudu, Matunggung and Pitas, which were still lacking in efficient infrastructure facilities.

"If this plan materialises, I am optimistic these areaa will experience rapid development. At the same time, when the implementation of Pan Borneo Highway project is fully completed, it will provide an efficient communication system to spur the development between Kudat and other towns including Kota Kinabalu," he said.

The project will be an inclusive development where the government will also build a new town besides creating a special trade zone to stimulate not only Sabah's economy but also surrounding areas of Kudat, he said.

On the SPA excellence service award, Bung Moktar hoped the recipients would inspire other staff to follow suit.

"I also hope all SPA staff will continue giving a high commitment on the responsibilities entrusted to them and keep themselves updated on current changes when discharging duties as we need to be forward looking in positioning SPA," he said.

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