Ewon to set up task force to monitor implementation of interim measures at Sepanggar Port; more frequent dialogue with stakeholders

5 March 2026

KOTA KINABALU: Deputy Chief Minister III, who is also Sabah’s Minister of Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transport, Datuk Ewon Benedick, said a special task force will be established to monitor the implementation of eight interim initiatives introduced to address congestion at the Sepanggar Bay Container Port.

He said the task force will ensure the smooth implementation of the interim measures while also assessing their effectiveness in improving the efficiency of port operations.

“The state government is committed to addressing congestion at Sepanggar Port as the port is a key variable in Sabah’s industrial and entrepreneurial supply chain.

“In addition to road infrastructure and utility supplies such as water, electricity and internet, one of the main aspects investors will ask about is the efficiency of port operations,” he said after chairing an engagement session with port stakeholders here today.

Also present were the Permanent Secretary of the Sabah Ministry of Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transport, Datuk Thomas Logijin, representatives from government agencies and departments, concessionaires and port operators, port users, as well as industry players represented by various associations.

Ewon said the engagement session was the first organised by his ministry, but it would not be the last, as an open dialogue approach will continue to be adopted to ensure port-related issues can be addressed collectively.

During the session, he said, MINDET presented eight interim initiatives that had been approved by the State Cabinet, while port operator DP World also briefed participants on efforts to improve assets and operational efficiency at the port.

He added that issues involving other government agencies were also clarified by the relevant agencies to ensure all parties understood the actual situation on the ground.

Ewon explained that the current congestion at Sepanggar Port is caused by several factors, including delays in the port expansion project, increased industrial activity resulting in higher container movements, and the use of the port for vehicle roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) operations which were not originally planned.

He also urged all parties to place Sabah’s interests as the top priority in seeking solutions to the congestion issues at Sepanggar Port.