KUCHING: The Ministry of Infrastructure and Port Development (MIPD) is set to undergo restructuring to accommodate a growing workload and new responsibilities, according to its minister, Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas. 

During an appreciation dinner for government departments and agencies that contributed to the successful implementation of the ministry's infrastructure projects, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah highlighted the necessity of expanding the ministry's workforce.

“MIPD currently has 42 officers and staff, but we are looking to increase this to 60, or even 100. This expansion is crucial as we are handling several critical projects, with an unprecedented budget allocation of RM1.31 billion for next year, provided by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Openg,” he said.

Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah stressed that the ministry's primary goal is to ensure 100 per cent utilisation of the budget for the benefit of the people. 

This will require a significant increase in manpower to meet the growing demands and ensure projects are delivered on time.

“With the addition of the port portfolio to our ministry, the need for more staff has become even more apparent. We are in the final stages of transitioning the Bintulu Port Authority from federal to state jurisdiction, a process we aim to complete by 30 January next year, after facing delays beyond our control,” he added.

Another major project on the ministry’s agenda is the establishment of the Tanjung Embang Deep Sea Port, a personal ambition of Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari. 

He noted that the collaboration with Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (PETROS) will be instrumental in realising this vision and ensuring the port can compete regionally.

Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah also announced plans to consolidate the six state ports under a Single State Port Authority, a process that has already seen the necessary legislation passed by the Sarawak Legislative Assembly. 

The target is for the authority to be operational by June next year, with efforts underway to ensure a seamless and cost-effective transition.

In 2024, MIPD will also oversee the implementation of 39 new "Projek Rakyat," with a total cost of RM6.07 billion. The tendering process is expected to begin next year.

“In addition to these projects, the ministry, through the state Public Works Department (JKR), will supervise infrastructure and amenity projects worth at least RM1.6 billion across the nine regional development agencies. We have a full agenda ahead of us,” Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah stated.

He acknowledged the ministry's achievements but cautioned that the continued success of MIPD depends on the focus and dedication of all involved. 

"Our leaders have shown great appreciation for the work done by the ministry and JKR. We must not let them down and remain focused on the tasks at hand," he said. 

Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah expressed gratitude to the officers and staff from MIPD and other agencies for their commitment and hard work, without which the ministry’s accomplishments would not have been possible. 

He also highlighted plans to send more young officers for training in areas such as the latest engineering technologies and management, ensuring they remain efficient and competent.

“We want all our officers to uphold the highest level of integrity, aiming to become a world-class organisation in the country,” he added.

Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah was joined at the event by his two deputy ministers, Datuk Majang Renggi and Datuk Ir Aidel Lariwoo, MIPD Permanent Secretary, Datu Chiew Chee Yaw, and state JKR Sarawak Director, Dr Cassidy Morris.-UKASnews