BDA

The Bintuly Development Authority's role

The state government, in 1978, established the BDA as a statutory body to spearhead and administer local development. It has autonomous power to conduct its affairs within its boundary zone. The BDA has been engaged in a wide range of activities, from planning and coordination to the development of residential and commercial buildings. It also undertakes local government functions as well as business ventures.

In the past 16 years, the BDA has spent about M$463 million to provide infrastructure, housing, industrial estates and recreational facilities in Bintulu. These have paved the way for the bigger industries already mentioned, and as a result helped other service and support industries.

The BDA has clearly brought to the Bintulu area rapid industrial growth and employment opportunities. Between 1978 and 1993, a total of M$17.8 billion was invested in Bintulu. Projections are that the new industrial growth will last until the turn of the century. Between now and the year 2000, a further M$25.6 billion in investment is expected as more new industries see the advantages of development in the area. The BDA will continue to play an active role in promoting its location and strategic advantages for industrial development both locally and overseas.

BDA development

Following the discovery of large reserves of natural gas offshore in Bintulu in 1969, a feasibility study conducted in 1975 found in nearby Tanjung Kidurong a suitable site for Sawarak’s first deep-water port.

As a result of the establishment of the BDA, Bintulu has witnessed unprecedented industrial development that looks set to continue into the next century.

The BDA Designated Area covers 12,515 square kilometers, including five kilometers offshore. It can be reached by frequent air services from Kuching, or the capital of neighbouring Sabah, Kota Kinabalu. Both cities have direct connections to Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Manila and Tokyo. The all-weather deep-water port enables direct shipping links within the region.