Pulau Muara Besar to be competitive global port
By Azlan Othman

SIGNING IN PROGRESS: (L-R) John Perry, Dato Hj Yusof, Richard Clarke and Stephen M McDonagh.

Dato Hj Yusof (2L) exchanging documents with Richard Clarke

The Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB) and Halcrow Group yesterday signed an agreement to undertake a study on the feasibility of developing Pulau Muara Besar into a competitive global port hub. The study is part of BEDB's strategy to create pools of investment for the development of two major industrial sites in Sg Liang and Pulau Muara Besar (PMB).

It will be supplemented by various studies covering economical, social, engineering and environmental aspects as well as land use, planning and surface access pertaining to transforming PMB.

Data collection include trends in the global container transport market, feasibility assessment of PMB as a globally competitive port, identification of development options, options ranking and recommendations for reports for participation from the private sector.

Why has BEDB engaged Halcrow to undertake this study?

BEDB invited seven international reputable ports consultancy firms to submit their respective study proposals.

Halcrow was selected since they have a great track record in planning and implementing successful ports, including Jbel Ali Port and free trade zone in Dubai, Port Salalah in Oman, Pelabuhan Tanjung Pelepas in Malaysia and the freeport in Bahamas.

On the issue of whether there is a real chance of developing a new deepwater port in the region, BEDB said that container shipping is now the major means of transport for goods worldwide.

The pattern of the industry is still evolving and quick in doing so. Recently, major changes in the industry have been seen in the region. Brunei has opportunities to reposition itself by capitalising on its strategic location.

As to whether the study would just look at container shipping, BEDB answered 'No.' It will examine the possibilities of a major port with industrial and logistics areas, all acting as a focus for economic development and drawing in further investments.

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin