Sunway Pier Harbour poised to boost tourism and local economy: MOT

 

KUALA LUMPUR: The Sunway Pier Harbour development project at Port Klang, although not under the supervision of the Transport Ministry (MOT), is recognised by the government for its significant potential to boost both the tourism sector and the local economy. 

Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the private sector is leading the project, which is being developed on the site of the former ferry terminal complex that previously operated services to Sumatra, Indonesia. 

"The new development will transform the site into a modern tourism destination, catering to both local residents and international visitors. 

"The new Sunway Pier will offer state-of-the-art, user-friendly facilities to enhance the appeal of Port Klang's waterfront, which has yet to experience world-class development," he said in reply to a question from Dr Halimah Ali (PN-Kapar) during Minister's Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat today. 

Dr Halimah had asked about the status of planning approvals, the environmental impact assessment, and the project's potential to create employment opportunities. 

The project, currently under construction, is expected to be completed by the second quarter of 2028.

Loke added that the project would also involve upgrading the Port Klang railway station, ensuring direct connectivity to the new pier. This upgrade aligns with plans to enhance future commuter train services. 

In addition, the development will feature not just commercial spaces but also public recreational areas along the waterfront, which is expected to stimulate the local economy by creating job opportunities and business prospects. 

"The project is expected to contribute more than RM5 billion to Malaysia's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) over the next decade, attract over 30 million tourists, and generate more than 1,000 new jobs," Loke said. 

He added that all necessary approvals, including planning permits and building plans, have already been secured from the Klang Municipal Council and various federal agencies, such as the Department of Environment and the Department of Irrigation and Drainage. 

In response to concerns from local residents regarding the project's proximity to existing port operations and the Pulau Ketam jetty, Loke reassured that there would be no disruption to logistics activities, adding that the project involves upgrading existing facilities to establish a main gateway to Pulau Ketam.

-nst online.