Sandakan Forwarders Raise Crane Concerns with Sabah Port

22 January 2026

SANDAKAN: The Sandakan Forwarding Association (SFA) has met Sabah Port management to address ongoing crane operation issues that are affecting port efficiency and business activity.

The meeting was led by SFA president Chong Thien Ming, who headed a delegation of committee members in discussions with Sabah Port general manager Lai Fui Nar. Chong thanked Sabah Port for its responsiveness to concerns raised by the forwarding, shipping and transport sectors.

He said Sandakan’s economy is showing signs of recovery after nearly five years of stagnation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, stressing that efficient port operations are critical as the town depends heavily on sea transport for economic activity.

Chong proposed several measures to resolve the crane shortage, including the procurement of new cranes, outsourcing crane operations, and, as an interim solution, transferring older cranes from Tawau Port for spare parts rather than waiting for delayed deliveries. He noted that Tawau Port is expected to receive two new cranes by April.

Sabah Port provided a detailed briefing on the current operational challenges during what both sides described as a transparent and constructive discussion. The SFA said it accepted the explanation on the condition that at least two cranes remain fully operational while longer-term solutions are considered by senior management.

Both parties agreed to hold a follow-up meeting within three months to review progress and receive updated information.

Chong also voiced concern over Sandakan’s long-term economic sustainability, noting the absence of major manufacturing facilities and large-scale development projects. He warned that inefficiencies at the port could trigger wider economic repercussions, and urged Sabah Port to take proactive steps to upgrade ageing equipment to support sustained growth in the town.