KOTA KINABALU: Congestion at the Sapangar Bay Container Port (SBCP) is set to be resolved soon, with Sabah Ports Sdn Bhd and shipping lines collaborating on constructive solutions to overcome the problem.
Deputy Chief Minister III and state Works Minister Datuk Shahelmey Yahya said that through the Sabah Logistics Council, a productive meeting was held recently with Sabah Ports and key industry players to discuss solutions.
"We were pleased to receive positive news and constructive feedback from Sabah Ports Sdn Bhd and the shipping lines," he said in a statement on Tuesday (July 16).
"The discussions highlighted a shared commitment to address the congestion and improve the efficiency of port operations (to) benefit... all stakeholders."
Shahelmey also said the council invited all industry players to work closely with it to raise any issues or concerns directly for speedy resolution.
"As the main logistics and transportation platform for all stakeholders, the council will aggressively play its role (to improve) the sector," he added.
Strong concerns have arisen among stakeholders and leaders alike over the imminent imposition of congestion surcharges set to take effect Tuesday.
They feared that the proposed surcharges of RM500 for a 20ft (6m) container and RM1,000 for a 40ft (12m) container would burden those dependent on the business and that these costs would ultimately be passed on to consumers, increasing inflationary pressures.
