(Kuching, 23rd) The Consul General of Brunei in Sarawak, Abdul Mahdani， visited Sarawak's Minister of Transport Datuk Sri Lee Kim Shin yesterday, where both parties exchanged views on various issues.
It is reported that during the meeting, they discussed cross-border travel, particularly issues related to transportation and logistics, with a special focus on the operation of the Sungai Tujoh Immigration, Customs, Quarantine, and Security Center (ICQS).
The discussion aimed to strengthen cooperation to reduce the long waiting times travelers often encounter, especially during weekends, public holidays, and festive seasons.
Lee Kim Shin and Brunei's Consul General in Sarawak, Abdul Mahdani, both agreed that Sungai Tujoh is an important gateway to Brunei and Sarawak and that the long queues at the checkpoint need to be addressed, affecting both locals and tourists.
"The Sarawak government has approved an allocation of 4 million ringgit to upgrade the facilities at the Sungai Tujoh ICQS. This upgrade includes adding four new lanes to improve traffic flow, with existing lanes designated for Brunei and foreign vehicles, while other lanes are reserved for local vehicles."
Lee Kim Shin also emphasized the importance of upgrading the Sungai Tujoh ICQS to accommodate the daily trucks commuting between Sarawak and Brunei, as well as trucks transiting from Limbang, Lawas, and Sabah through Brunei.
He also noted that buses run daily between Pontianak, Indonesia, and Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei, passing through the Sungai Tujoh ICQS.
Brunei's Consul General Abdul Mahdani expressed that he will assist in arranging a meeting between the Minister of Transport of Sarawak and the Minister of Transport and Information Communication of Brunei to discuss transport and logistics issues affecting Sarawak and Brunei.
He also shared that many Bruneians travel by land to Sarawak, visiting not only Miri and its surrounding areas but even as far as Teluk Melano.
He praised Sarawak for maintaining a good road infrastructure, which has become a major attraction for Bruneians embarking on road trips.
He also emphasized the increasing number of international tourists, especially from China, using the Sungai Tujoh ICQS to travel between the two countries and explore Borneo Island.
Besides the Consul General of Brunei, representatives from the Commercial Vehicle Licensing Board, Road Transport Department, Immigration Department, Customs, and Sarawak's Ministry of Transport also attended the visit, providing feedback to the Brunei Consul General and his officials on cross-border transport and logistics matters.
This meeting underscored the growing cooperation between Sarawak and Brunei, with both parties committed to strengthening transportation links, improving travelers' experiences, and promoting tourism and trade in the region.