Sandakan, Malaysia

Port Overview

Sandakan is located on the east coast of Sabah, Malaysia, facing the Sulu Sea. It is the second-largest city in Sabah and a principal port, historically serving as the former capital of British North Borneo. Sandakan’s strategic position makes it a key gateway for trade in timber, palm oil, and other commodities from the region. The port handles an estimated annual throughput of around 300,000 TEU, supporting both regional and international shipping routes. Its spacious harbor and proximity to major shipping lanes underscore its importance in East Malaysia’s maritime sector.

Facilities & Infrastructure

Sandakan Port features a main wharf with four berths for general cargo, containers, and dry bulk, plus three oil terminals dedicated to palm oil and petroleum products. Key facilities include transit sheds, open storage areas, and specialized timber export operations. The port is equipped with mobile cranes, forklifts, and cargo handling equipment, but does not currently deploy automated guided vehicles (AGVs). Its infrastructure supports efficient handling of palm oil, timber, and general cargo.

Container Terminals

Sandakan Port in Malaysia has four main container berths, with a maximum vessel size of 20,000 DWT and depths up to 11 meters. Annual container handling capacity is moderate, supporting regional trade. The port operates with conventional equipment and limited automation. Sabah Ports Sdn. Bhd. is the major operator, overseeing daily three-shift operations. The port primarily serves general cargo, containers, and palm oil exports.

Port Services

• Container handling: Facilities for loading, unloading, and storage of containers.
• Cargo operations: Handling of general cargo, dry bulk, palm oil products, and fertilizer.
• Ship services: Berthing, fresh water supply, bunker fuel, and provisions.
• Warehousing: On-site storage for various cargo types.
• Customs: Full customs clearance and documentation support for imports and exports.

Global Connectivity

Sandakan Port in Malaysia serves as a key gateway for Sabah’s east coast, connecting to regional ports in Southern Philippines, North Kalimantan, and Sulawesi. It is linked by major shipping lines such as Maersk, MSC, Hapag-Lloyd, MTT Line, and PIL, offering regular routes to Port Klang and other Malaysian hubs. The port supports intra-Asia trade and facilitates access to broader ASEAN and BIMP-EAGA markets, enhancing connectivity to major regional and international markets.

Port Statistics

Port of Sandakan, Malaysia – Key Statistics (2025):

• TEU Throughput: Approximately 60,000–70,000 TEUs annually
• World Ranking: Not ranked among the world’s top 100 container ports
• Number of Berths: 7 main berths
• Port Area: About 46 hectares
• Shipping Lines: Serviced by major regional lines including MTT Shipping, SITC, and regional feeders

Sandakan primarily handles container, general cargo, and bulk vessels, serving as a key gateway for Sabah’s palm oil, timber, and agricultural exports.