KUCHING: A courtesy visit by the Consul-General of Brunei to Sarawak, Sheikh Abdul Mahdani Datuk Paduka Sheikh Abdul Ghani, to Sarawak Minister for Transport, Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin, has set the stage for enhancing cross-border travel between Sarawak and Brunei.
During the meeting, discussions were focused on transport and logistics issues, particularly the operations of the Sungai Tujoh Immigration, Customs, Quarantine, and Security (ICQS) checkpoint.
Both parties explored ways to strengthen cooperation to address the long waiting times frequently experienced by travellers, especially during weekends, public holidays, and festive seasons.
They both acknowledged the strategic importance of the Sungai Tujoh ICQS as a key gateway between Brunei and Sarawak. They recognised the need to mitigate recurring congestion issues that impact both locals and tourists.
“The Sarawak government has allocated RM4 million to upgrade the facilities at the Sungai Tujoh ICQS. This upgrade will include the addition of four new lanes to improve traffic flow. Existing lanes will be designated for Brunei and foreign vehicles, while the new lanes will cater to local vehicles,” Lee said.
He further noted the significance of improving the ICQS facilities to accommodate the daily movement of lorries transporting goods between Sarawak and Brunei, as well as transit traffic from Limbang, Lawas, and Sabah via Brunei.
Additionally, he highlighted the daily bus services operating between Pontianak, Indonesia, and Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei, which pass through the Sungai Tujoh ICQS.
Abdul Mahdani expressed Brunei’s commitment to fostering stronger ties with Sarawak and mentioned that he would facilitate arrangements for Lee to meet with the Minister of Transport and Infocommunications of Brunei to discuss mutual transportation and logistics concerns.
He also noted the increasing number of Bruneians travelling by land to various parts of Sarawak, including Miri and as far as Teluk Melano.
He praised Sarawak’s well-maintained road infrastructure, which has been a major attraction for Bruneians embarking on road trips. Furthermore, he highlighted the growing number of international tourists, particularly from China, using the Sungai Tujoh ICQS to explore the island of Borneo.
The courtesy call was attended by representatives from the Commercial Vehicle Licensing Board (LPKP), Road Transport Department (JPJ), Immigration Department, Customs Department, and officials from the Ministry of Transport Sarawak.
