SIBU (Aug 4): The Ministry of Transport Sarawak is planning to implement the Integrated Logistics Infrastructure Development (ILID) programme across the state, said Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin.
The Transport Minister said this would further enhance Sarawak’s logistics ecosystem and support sustained economic growth.
“With the continued expansion of industrial and commercial activities, this programme aims not only to alleviate traffic congestion and illegal roadside parking, but more importantly, to improve road safety, optimise operational efficiency.
“It will also ensure the orderly and efficient flow of goods and people,” he said during the Federation of Sarawak Lorry Association’s (FSLA) 55th anniversary celebration here last night.
The event also saw the installation of new committee members for Sibu Lorry Association and Kuching Samarahan Lorry Owners Association.
On truck weight regulations, Lee said the Ministry of Transport has coordinated and negotiated with the Public Works Department (JKR) and Road Transport Department (JPJ) to conduct a detailed study and assessment to determine whether existing roads can accommodate higher-tonnage trucks.
“If conditions are met, we will strive to adjust the road weight limits. At the same time, I encourage operators to raise any transportation issues with the Ministry of Transport through their associations.
“We are willing to coordinate and discuss with relevant authorities to find practical solutions. Addressing the truck weight issue requires a holistic and multifaceted perspective to formulate a practical strategy,” he said.
Lee praised FSLA for its active collaboration with the government, providing valuable industry input and feedback to help formulate transport policies and strategies that better meet Sarawak’s practical needs.
He said as a member of the Sarawak Public Transport Committee under his ministry, FSLA serves not only as a bridge and supporter for lorry transport operators but also as a key partner in the government’s efforts to promote public transportation and logistics.
Lee called for continued close ties and cooperation to build a robust transport industry.
“Undeniably, operators face numerous challenges in their operations, including rising transportation costs, driver shortages, road safety management, vehicle equipment upgrades, and the interoperability between federal policies and Sarawak implementation.
“Rest assured, the Sarawak government will continue to serve as a bridge, actively communicating with the federal government to reflect the actual needs and challenges of local operators, ensuring that policy formulation is more grounded and tailored to Sarawak’s unique geographical and economic environment,” he said.
Among those present were Senator Robert Lau, Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng, Sibu Municipal Council chairman Clarence Ting, FSLA president Ling Kah Kiong, and Sibu Lorry Association chairman Kiew Kwong Ming.

Credit: Conny Banji,