Bukit Assek rep proposes third LPG bottling plant in Tanjung Manis to ensure supply stability in central S’wak

By Ashley Sim

KUCHING, May 21: Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng Jin Ek (GPS-SUPP) has proposed the establishment of a third Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) bottling plant in the central zone of Sarawak, ideally in Tanjung Manis, to prevent future disruptions and improve energy security for the region.

Chieng said that earlier this year, in February, many residents in Sibu and the surrounding central region faced difficulties obtaining LPG gas cylinders.

“This situation arose when the Bintulu PUSAKA LPG Bottling Plant was forced to temporarily halt operations due to a landslide incident.

“As a result, local distributors had to collect LPG gas cylinders from Kuching, doubling transport distances and causing significant delays in distribution,” he said when delivering motion of appreciation on TYT’s speech at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) here today.

Chieng thanked the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication Sarawak and Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (PETROS) for their swift response in addressing the crisis but stressed that a long-term solution is needed.

“While this incident has been resolved, it has revealed a structural weakness in our LPG supply network, the overreliance on only two bottling plants in the State: one in Kuching and one in Bintulu.

“Any disruption at either plant inevitably affects the entire supply chain, especially in the central region,” he added.

The Bukit Assek assemblyman suggested that Tanjung Manis, with its strategic location and existing industrial infrastructure, would be an ideal location for the proposed plant.

“With its strategic location and existing industrial infrastructure, Tanjung Manis is well-positioned to serve as a dedicated supply base for Sibu, Mukah, Sarikei, Bintangor, Kapit, and nearby areas,” he said.

Chieng added that the proposal is not merely a redundancy but a long-term strategic investment in strengthening supply chain resilience.

“A third bottling facility would strengthen our State’s energy security, reduce risks of future shortages, and ensure uninterrupted access to LPG for our people, even in times of unforeseen emergencies,” he said. — DayakDaily

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