KOTA KINABALU: The old Kota Kinabalu Port area is set to see a facelift with mega developments expected to boost the cruise and tourism industry in Sabah.
Suria Capital Holdings Berhad group managing director Ng Kiat Min, who is also Sabah Ports Sdn Bhd (SPSB) managing director, said the ongoing and planned developments were worth billions of ringgit.
“These projects include the 15-acre Sabah International Convention
Centre (SICC), Kota Kinabalu Convention City (8.33 acres), Jesselton
Quay (16.25 acres), seven-acre One Jesselton Waterfront, the proposed
International Cruise Terminal (ICT), and the proposed ferry terminal,” she said.
Ng added that with its strategic geographical location fronting the South China Sea against a backdrop of the majestic Mount Kinabalu, this coming development would definitely lure more visitors, be it domestically or those from overseas.
She said for the proposed ICT development, it will be based on a low-density, low-rise model to preserve the water feature, minimise the environmental impact, and avoid obstructing the view of the surrounding developments.
For connectivity, she said the proposed ICT and all the developments within the KK Port land will be integrated and linked by a boardwalk featuring shops, eateries, amusement centres, nightlife and lodging.
“To make way for the proposed development of the ICT, plans are underway for the construction of a new terminal in Sepanggar Bay for relocation of the general cargo operation at the existing KK Port,” she said.
The new facility may be known as Sepanggar Bay Conventional Cargo Terminal, Ng said during a courtesy call on Deputy Chief Minister and state Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew on Sunday (Jan 6).
She said these developments will be collectively known as the Jesselton Waterfront City (JWC) where they will complement each other and transform the entire old KK Port area into an integrated world-class waterfront destination.
Other new features and attractions expected include multi-storey commercial suites, a tropical-themed beach club, retail shops, hotel towers, malls, serviced suites, offices and carparks.
During the courtesy call, Ng and Liew also discussed ways the state government and the company can work together.
“It is exciting to learn that JWC is designed to create a modern and friendly atmosphere as a focal point for people to work, play, shop, dine and indulge in the 3Ss – that is, a fun combination of sun, sea and sand,” Liew said.
She said she was particularly interested in the eventual realisation of the proposed ICT within JWC.
“The ICT is well-positioned to capitalise on the potential of elevating the KK waterfront area to the status of a major transportation and tourist hub in view of the various mega developments taking place in the vicinity,” she said.