In line with strategic objectives of Ministry of Communications, the Ports Department is encouraging shipping line or principal to base in Muara Port, towards realising the vision of Muara Port to become the Hub Port for the BIMP-EAGA area.

In its effort to improve shipping connectivity, the Ports Department, Ministry of Communications has recorded another significant testimonial whereby second fleets belongs to Mariana Express Lines namely MV Mell Saujana made her maiden voyage to Muara Port on 2 September 2009. This container vessel has 9,610 GRT, 142.7 m LOA, speed at 18 Knots and carrying 1,049 TEUs.

MV Mell Saujana is the sister vessel of MV Mell Saraca which made her maiden voyage to Muara Port last week on 26 August 2009.

The shipping routing schedules are Hong Kong – Kuching –– Bintulu – Muara – Kota Kinabalu – Cayagan de Oro – Cebu – Hong Kong. This new service compliments some parts of the BIMP-EAGA Ports. The shipping schedule is one vessel per week (alternately) and will be calling at Muara Port every Wednesday.

With this new service, it is expected that the container throughput at Muara Container Terminal to be increased and creating more business opportunities to the local freight forwarders and transportation companies.

Mr Ang Kian Guan, Director of Ports lauded the service offered by Mariana Express Lines as yet another milestone for the Ports Department in its effort to improve shipping connectivity.

The Ports Department will continue its effort to attract and encourage more shipping lines to make frequent calls at the Muara Port without losing sights on the importance of maritime safety and security aspects.