SANDAKAN: Sandakan Port is under heightened scrutiny as the festive season approaches, with authorities monitoring operations to prevent disruptions to local businesses and market supply.
Karamunting Assemblyman Alex TK Wong said port efficiency was especially crucial ahead of major celebrations such as the upcoming Chinese New Year, followed by Ramadan and Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
In a recent statement, Wong said many goods imported through the port during this period were vital to ensuring sufficient market supply and sustaining business operations, adding that any disruption could directly affect traders’ planning and income.
“Many local businesses, particularly during festive periods, rely heavily on peak consumer demand. Delays in the arrival or distribution of goods would have a real impact on their operations,” he said, adding that stable port operations were essential to help traders capitalise on festive spending.
Wong said he was continuing to monitor overall operations at Sandakan Port to ensure cargo handling and distribution remained smooth, so as not to disrupt traders or the local market.
He noted that, based on information from Sabah Ports Sdn Bhd, port crane SPSB7 is still awaiting the arrival of a critical spare part from Germany, with repairs expected to be completed by early February.
During the maintenance period, Wong said the port management would rely on existing scheduling arrangements and alternative operational methods to minimise any impact on cargo handling efficiency.
He stressed that as a key logistics hub for the region, the stability of port operations was closely linked to local economic activity and daily needs, particularly during periods packed with festive demand.
Wong added that he would continue engaging with port management to stay updated on repair progress and operational developments, and would raise any concerns from traders and the public with the relevant authorities if necessary, to ensure the port continues to operate efficiently during this critical period.
