Labuan Port Progressing Towards Smart Port By 2030 Gains Positive Reception

By Jailani Hasan

LABUAN, Oct 18 (Bernama) -- Labuan Port's vision to become a 'smart port' by 2030 has received widespread support from various stakeholders, including academic experts, local authorities and industry players.

Efforts to modernise the port are being hailed as a significant step towards enhancing efficiency, connectivity and competitiveness within the region.

University Malaysia Sabah senior lecturer Prof Dr Romzi Ationg emphasised the need for unified efforts from both local authorities and industry stakeholders to ensure the success of this transformative project.

“The transition of Labuan Port into a smart port by 2030 is an ambitious yet crucial goal.

“To achieve this, it is imperative that local authorities and industry players work together to overcome the challenges and obstacles that may arise during the transformation," he said to Bernama today.

Dr Romzi said a smart port incorporates advanced technologies and data-driven solutions to streamline port operations, improve security and enhance overall efficiency.

Such transformation could boost trade and economic activities, which is particularly vital for Labuan's economy as a free trade zone and international offshore financial centre.

"Labuan's strategic location in the South China Sea makes it a significant gateway for trade and shipping activities in the region, making the transition to become a smart port even more important," he said.

Dr Romzi said as Labuan Port's transformation progresses, continued support and cooperation from local authorities and industry players are crucial to bring Labuan Port into the digital age, further solidifying its position as a key maritime hub in the region.

“Collaboration between the port operator and the local authorities is seen as a key driver in ensuring the project's success," Dr Romzi said.

Recently, Straits Energy Resources Bhd’s indirect subsidiary, Straits CommNet Solutions Sdn Bhd signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Labuan Port operator, Megah Port Management Sdn Bhd to transform the Labuan Port into a smart port.

In a statement on Tuesday, Straits Energy said the smart port project aligns with the federal government's aim to transform Labuan into a smart city by 2030, embracing innovative technologies to develop the Federal Territory and improve the quality of life of its residents.

The company expects to invest a total of RM3.6 million in the first two phases of the smart port project.

The first phase is expected to be completed in seven months, while the second phase of the project is expected to take an additional seven months.

Local authorities on this duty-free island have already begun the groundwork for this transformation, including the installation of digital infrastructure, the integration of the Internet of Thing devices, and enhance transparency in the administration and security in the public places.

Labuan Corporation (LC) chief executive officer Rithuan Ismail said the mission to transform the Labuan port into a smart port is in line with the LC's Structural Plan 2020-2040 and the Labuan Development Blueprint 2030 to turn the island into a smart and sustainable island city.

“LC remains steadfast in its support for initiatives that yield economic benefits for the island," he added.

-- BERNAMA