KUNAK: Lahad Datu Umno Youth Chief and Barisan Nasional (BN) Youth Exco, Dato’ Sri Anil Sandhu, urged the Sabah state government to consider establishing an integrated port in Kunak.
This initiative aims to stimulate economic development in the district, particularly along the east coast of Sabah, while also creating more job opportunities for local residents.
Anil said that Kunak’s strategic location, situated between three key towns in the east coast—Lahad Datu, Semporna, and Tawau—positions it as an ideal site for development, which should be given serious attention.
window.googletag = window.googletag || {cmd: []};googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.defineSlot('/22826383987/dailyexpress_inline', [1, 1], 'gpt-passback').addService(googletag.pubads());googletag.enableServices();googletag.display('gpt-passback');});“The development of an integrated port here is highly feasible, supported by several key factors that align with this vision,” he said.
Additionally, the Pan Borneo Highway, which passes through Kunak, is expected to further enhance future traffic networks and accelerate regional transformation.
He said a similar proposal for an integrated port in Kunak had been discussed back in 2015/16, but the initiative was stalled due to a change in government.
“Kunak’s location is more strategic, being close to Semporna and other districts along the east coast. It also has deeper waters, making it more suitable for the construction of an integrated port and a shipping industry that can accommodate large cargo vessels,” he said.
Currently, the existing Kunak Port plays a vital role in supporting the export industry, particularly for downstream products such as cooking oil and crude palm oil (CPO) to international markets.
In contrast, Semporna faces significant infrastructure challenges that could hinder large-scale development.
The district’s narrow roads and high population density contribute to heavy traffic congestion and an imbalance in development. “The phenomenon of over-tourism in Semporna is already putting pressure on its ecosystem and local environment,” Anil noted in his statement.
“If the integrated port proposal for Kunak is given due consideration, it could unlock the economic potential of the district and its surrounding areas, while also boosting industrial growth and local businesses.”
“As a native of Kunak, I sincerely hope the state government will seriously consider this proposal for the long-term benefit of the region. The development of an integrated port in Kunak could bring significant socio-economic improvements to the district,” he said.
