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KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Timber Industries Association (STIA) has urged the State Government and port authorities to implement immediate and long-term measures to prevent a repeat of the recent congestion at Tawau Port.

STIA president Tan Peng Juan (pic) said traders are still reeling from delays caused by a month-long disruption involving broken cranes that left 200 export containers stranded at the port.

The association warned that current reliance on a single operational crane remains a major risk, and called for clear contingency plans and weekly updates to ensure accountability.

Tan confirmed Sabah Ports Sdn Bhd (SPSB) has committed to investing RM70 million in two new quay cranes, but said the earliest arrival would only be by year-end, leaving exporters exposed.

He added that STIA is considering rerouting shipments to POIC Lahad Datu Port despite added costs, as members seek reliable alternatives while urging the formation of a task force to monitor Tawau Port’s operations.