POIC port offers quicker access to Zambo traders
Published on: Saturday, June 14, 2025
Published on: Sat, Jun 14, 2025
By: Nikko Fabian Text Size: Razanah presenting sample of Sabah dry noodles to Gamar. Kota Kinabalu: The POIC Lahad Datu port is not just a convenient alternative for Sabah's east coast merchants and shippers; it's a catalyst for increased trade with neighbouring countries. Its modern facilities, including dedicated terminals for container, liquid bulk (like crude palm oil), and dry bulk cargo (including fertilisers), are alleviating congestion issues plaguing the Tawau Port.
Advertisement This is particularly beneficial for traders shipping goods to the ZamBaSulTa region (Zamboanga City-Basilan-Sulu-Tawi-Tawi) and the Zamboanga Peninsula, who now have a faster, more cost-effective option. The Sabah Cross-Border Trade Association (SCBTA) reports enthusiastic reception from Filipino and Indonesian businesses, highlighting the port's positive impact on regional trade. SCBTA President Razanah Paimin said the shorter travel time to Lahad Datu, compared to Tawau, and the avoidance of Tawau's recent congestion issues (caused by equipment breakdown) are key advantages. Even elected officials in Zamboanga Del Norte , she said expressed keen interest in collaborating with Sabah businesses, further emphasising the port's role in fostering cross-border economic growth. During my initiate discussion with outgoing Sirawai Municipal Mayor Gamar Janihim last week, Razanah said the municipality and other municipal elected officials in Zamboanga Del Norte expressed eagerness to promote Malaysia products . Razanah was told that the entry of Malaysian products like dry noodles, cooking oil and other essential food items are salelable in the area. On his part, Gamar said that he will arranged a meeting between SCBTA and local government officials including owners of big commercial establishments in the province to discuss the mechanics and business strategies on how to effectively promote Malaysians goods. Meanwhile, POIC Sabah Sdn Bhd is actively engaging with stakeholders, including the Sabah Timber Industries Association (STIA), to address any remaining concerns and ensure the port's capacity is fully utilised. The 'port-within-a-park' concept, unique to POIC Lahad Datu, ensures efficient goods movement, further enhanced by the experienced port crew and advanced facilities, recently demonstrated by the seamless handling of super heavy-duty batteries for a major energy project. With its official designation as a public port in June 2022, POIC Lahad Datu is poised to significantly enhance Sabah's trading capabilities and strengthen its regional economic ties. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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