Kota kinabalu: Shipping companies have agreed to defer the proposed congestion surcharge at the Sapangar Bay Container Port (SBCP) following a series of engagements with Sabah's Ministry of Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transport (MINDET). According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sabah Deputy Chief Minister III Datuk Ewon Benedick announced the decision after continued negotiations between the ministry, shipping firms, and port user associations. Ewon highlighted that he held three meetings in the past week with shipping companies to find the best possible solution to the congestion issues. Shipping companies expressed confidence in the measures being implemented and officially informed the ministry of their decision to defer the surcharge. Ewon, who is also the Sabah MINDET Minister, made these remarks while officiating at the Penampang district-level Kaamatan Festival celebration at Buhavan Square. The deferment is seen as a significant achievement for the state government. Ewon noted that the su rcharge would have increased costs for consumers through the supply chain. With the proposal now deferred, efforts can focus on improving governance and operational efficiency at the port. To enhance efficiency, the port operator has introduced a new initiative called the 'berthing window programme'. This programme is designed to improve maritime logistics operations and reduce vessel congestion at SBCP. Ewon also mentioned that the state government has been proactive in addressing congestion issues at the Sepanggar container port, which has become a public concern. Since February, a task force has been established, and measures under the state Cabinet-approved action plan have been monitored almost weekly. He expressed hope that the issue would be resolved swiftly for the benefit of the state economy and called on all parties in Penampang, regardless of political affiliation, to remain united in line with the Sabah Maju Jaya development agenda.