(Miri, 18th) Miri Member of Parliament Chiew Choon Man (lawyer) has called on the federal government to prioritize the approval of an allocation of RM31,036,000 in the 2026 national budget for upgrading the Sungai Tujoh Immigration, Customs, Quarantine, and Security Integrated Complex (ICQS) facilities. This is to alleviate the increasingly severe congestion and further boost Miri's and the nation's economic development.
"In recent years, on weekends, public holidays, and school breaks, severe traffic congestion frequently occurs at the Sungai Tujoh ICQS, with travelers spending 3 to 4 hours just to get through clearance procedures. This not only affects visitor experience but also leads to hidden economic costs and has caused some tourists to cut back on visits to Malaysia."
He said the Sungai Tujoh ICQS is one of the busiest border posts in the country, strategically located with advantageous currency exchange, making Miri the destination of choice for Brunei citizens to shop and enjoy services. The influx of tourists not only stimulates the development of retail, dining, hospitality, healthcare, and the automotive sectors but also generates "invisible export" revenues for the country, which indirectly strengthens demand for the Ringgit.
"If the facilities are upgraded, clearance efficiency will be greatly improved, reducing processing time and congestion. We are confident of attracting more Bruneian visitors and positioning Miri as a center for shopping, leisure, and services, thereby further revitalizing the local economy."
Chiew Choon Man urged the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Economy to attach great importance to this plan and grant it priority consideration. He expressed gratitude for the close cooperation between federal and Sarawak government agencies and promised to continue following up in Parliament to ensure the project's approval and implementation.
"I will continue to monitor the progress of this case and push for the early realization of the Sungai Tujoh ICQS upgrade project, to facilitate cross-border travel, revitalize Miri’s economy, and consolidate Malaysia’s position as the preferred destination for regional travelers and investors."