The Muara Port Expansion Project, a key initiative aimed at enhancing Brunei’s primary port, took center stage during a Stakeholder Engagement Session hosted by Muara Port Company (MPC). The project, which will significantly increase the port’s capacity and efficiency, is expected to strengthen Muara Port’s position as a regional trade hub and drive economic growth.
The engagement session, held at Dewan Seri Kerna of the Maritime and Port Authority of Brunei Darussalam (MPABD) on Wednesday, gathered relevant government agencies, local communities from Muara and Serasa, and key stakeholders. The session, conducted in two parts, provided a platform to discuss the project’s objectives, timeline, and its potential impacts, particularly during the construction phase.
MPC Chief Operating Officer Fazilah Yassin, in his opening remarks, emphasised the importance of the port expansion for Brunei’s future. “The benefits of this project will not only bolster Muara Port’s position as a regional hub for trade and logistics, but also stimulate economic growth, create new business opportunities, generate employment, and improve the port’s overall efficiency and services,” he said.
The expansion project will involve the construction of a new 250-meter berth adjacent to the existing Muara Container Terminal, the deepening of both berths to -13 meters, and the installation of state-of-the-art equipment, including Post-Panamax quay cranes and rail-mounted gantry cranes. Upon completion, the port’s total berth length will reach 500 meters, allowing it to accommodate larger vessels in the 30,000-50,000 DWT range and significantly boost its cargo-handling capacity.
“This expansion aligns with our vision of establishing Muara Port as a regional hub, supporting Brunei’s industry diversification efforts, and fostering economic growth. It will also create jobs and contribute to the nation’s broader development goals,” Fazilah added.
The turnkey project was awarded to China Harbour Engineering and Construction (CHEC), in partnership with local contractor Adinin & Sons, both of which are recognised for their expertise in marine structures and terminal construction. PY Consulting, in collaboration with Othman & Associates, has been appointed as the Project Management Consultant (PMC), ensuring smooth execution and delivery.
Preliminary works, including the detailed design of the new terminal, have already commenced, with the entire project expected to be completed within 36 months. The new container terminal is projected to be operational by the third quarter of 2027.
Fazilah expressed hope that the session would provide stakeholders with a clear understanding of the project’s scope and ensure smooth progress with minimal disruption. “With active engagement, support, and collaboration, we aim to ensure the success of this expansion with as little inconvenience as possible to the port community,” he concluded.
The session allowed for active participation from stakeholders, including representatives from government agencies and local communities, who discussed various aspects of the project. The engagement served to align expectations and foster ongoing collaboration, crucial for the long-term success and benefits of the Muara Port Expansion Project.
This expansion is expected to further solidify Muara Port’s role as a logistics hub, enhancing trade opportunities for Brunei and supporting the nation’s economic diversification efforts. – LYNA MOHAMMAD
