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Sabah Timber Industries Association (STIA), on Thursday, expressed disappointment that promised repairs at Tawau Port remain incomplete, despite Sabah Ports Sdn Bhd's assurance that operations would resume by May 21.

STIA president Tan Peng Juan said exporters are facing mounting costs and delays, with 87 containers still stuck at the port and 99 more awaiting shipment, amid a worsening backlog caused by non-functional cranes.

Tan said at least two vessels had recently bypassed Tawau Port due to severe congestion, and the lack of an updated timeline from port authorities has further undermined industry confidence.

He added that alternatives such as rerouting shipments to Sandakan are not viable, given high transportation costs and limited handling capacity, leaving businesses with few practical options.

Tan called for urgent transparency from Sabah Ports, including weekly updates, temporary relief measures, and stronger accountability to prevent further economic harm to Tawau and Sabah’s export sector.