Bintulu Port to embrace cutting edge AI, automation innovations for better efficiency and sustainability

BINTULU (Sept 24): Bintulu Port will embrace cutting edge innovations such as artificial intelligence (AI) and automation to enhance both efficiency and sustainability, said Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki.

The Bintulu Port Holdings Berhad chairman said several exciting milestones for the port will mark significant steps forward.

He cited the first as the partnership with Giga Shipping, which has enabled the handling of ro-ro (roll-on/roll-off) vehicles at the new Bintulu Car Terminal.

“This collaboration is a key step in our journey to solidify Bintulu Port as a leading ro-ro transhipment hub, a goal we have been diligently working towards.

“Next we are collaborating with Raw Energy on the handling of Hybrid Tropical Grass pellet, an innovative, carbon-neutral biomass cargo,” he said at the Borneo Oil and Gas (BOG) Supply Base official launch yesterday.

He explained that this partnership reflects Bintulu Port’s commitment to sustainability and setting new standards in renewable energy.

Abu Bakar, who is State Secretary, said the port is also collaborating with Surbana Jurong, Singapore.

“Their expertise in industrial and port development will be critical as we work to enhance both Bintulu and Samalaju Ports, especially as we plan for future growth, including the development of the free zones,” he said.

He pointed out the port is also working with Asas Stabil to use satellite technology to study how global warming affects port operations.

“This collaboration will help us become more resilient and better prepared for the challenges of climate change.

“These initiatives reflect our forward-thinking approach and our dedication to both innovation and sustainability,” he said.

Bintulu Port Group is also expanding its marine services capabilities to support offshore oil and gas activities, he said, to ensure its continued role as a key player in this sector.

“We are expanding the existing container terminal at Bintulu and plan to establish a new terminal at Samalaju port to accommodate in the increasing demand for cargo.

“These upgrades will position us to meet future growth and strengthen our role as a strategic logistics hub in the region,” he said.

Additionally, he said the development of free zones at both ports is expected to stimulate economic growth and attract more investment to the region.

“Another key initiative is the implementation of carbon capture and storage (CCS) solutions at Samalaju Port, reinforcing a commitment to reducing carbon emissions and advancing a greener future.

“Looking ahead we are also undertaking land reclamation efforts to double or even triple the size of the existing ports over the next 50 years, ensuring we are prepared to meet the long-term demands of the industry,” he said.

In line with Sarawak’s green energy and green economy development, he said Bintulu Port has been recognised by the prestigious Bureau Veritas Green Certification.

“We envision the supply base not just as a cornerstone of today’s energy sector but as a pioneering force in the transition towards sustainable energy solutions,” he said.

Abu Bakar also highlighted Bintulu Port’s transformation since its inception on Jan 1, 1983.

Globally recognised as the third-largest liquefied natural gas (LNG) export terminal, he said Bintulu Port is the primary gateway for East Malaysia.

To date, the port has successfully facilitated over 13,130 LNG shipments.

“I would like to extend our sincere thanks to the Royal Malaysian Customs for granting us Sarawak’s first petroleum supply base licence under Section 77B, making us the third in Malaysia to receive this licence and the fourth in the country to operate as a supply base.

“We are also deeply grateful to the Sarawak government, the Ministry of Finance, and all relevant agencies for their unwavering support and collaboration,” he added.