Kota Kinabalu: Sabah Ports Authority (LPPS) recorded encouraging operational performance throughout 2025, including a significant increase in cargo handling volume, said Chief Minister III cum Entrepreneur Development, Cooperatives and Transportation Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick.
He said total cargo handling in 2025 reached 532,391 TEUs, up from 386,293 TEUs recorded in 2024.
“This achievement clearly reflects the strategic role of the port sector as a key catalyst for the State’s economic growth,” he said at the LPPS Excellent Service Awards 2025 held at Sutera Pacific Hotel here Wednesday.
According to him, the achievement also demonstrates LPPS’s capability in addressing increasingly complex operational challenges, including congestion issues at several major ports in the state.
He noted that among the issues drawing attention were those at Sapangar Bay Container Port (SBCP), Tawau Port and several other ports.
In this regard, he said the State Government, through the relevant ministry and LPPS, has adopted an integrated approach to address these issues effectively and continuously.
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“The Sabah Government introduced eight interim action plan initiatives on 18 February this year to address congestion at Sapangar Bay Container Port.
“These initiatives were followed by the implementation of five key thrusts in collaboration with port users and stakeholders on Mar 5, 2026,” he said.
He added that a special task force has also been established to ensure that all government decisions and interim measures are implemented effectively.
“I have personally chaired related meetings and greatly appreciate the commitment of all parties, particularly LPPS, in executing the measures decided by the Cabinet,” he said.
Ewon also shared that he, together with the relevant minister and senior ministry officials, had conducted site visits to Sandakan Port and Tawau Port to observe operations firsthand and gather feedback on improvements needed.
He stressed that port efficiency is crucial as it serves as the main gateway for economic activities, including the movement of local entrepreneurs’ products, industrial raw materials and the import of essential goods for Sabahans.
“As a ministry responsible for industrial and entrepreneurial development, port efficiency reflects our ability to manage logistics and support investment,” he said.
Meanwhile, he expressed appreciation to all LPPS personnel for their contributions in ensuring smooth port operations across the state.
At the event, a total of 47 LPPS staff received the Excellent Service Award 2025.
Ewon said the recognition does not solely belong to the individuals receiving the awards, but reflects the success of the organisation as a whole.
“If 47 individuals receive awards, it is in fact a recognition of the entire LPPS team. Like a football team, scoring a goal is the result of collective effort, not just an individual,” he said.
He emphasised that every role within the organisation, no matter how small, is important in achieving overall success.
“Each member plays their part. Without the support of all, success cannot be achieved,” he said.
Ewon also reminded award recipients to appreciate the support of their families, who serve as the backbone of their achievements.
He assured that he would continue to support LPPS efforts in strengthening port efficiency as a driver of the State’s economy.
“I will continue to defend and support LPPS initiatives, including in the State Legislative Assembly, so that the public understands the efforts being undertaken despite the challenges faced,” he said.
He also extended his congratulations to all award recipients and LPPS personnel who remain committed to contributing to the development of Sabah’s port sector.
Assistant Entrepreneur Development, Cooperatives and Transportation Minister Datuk Jonnybone J Kurum, Ministry’s Permanent Secretary Datuk Thomas Logijin, LPPS Chairman Datuk Donad Peter Mojuntin and General Manager Dollyn Aloysius, among others were also present.
