36th anniversary bash with vision for unity and sustainability

KUCHING: The city marked its 36th anniversary today with a ceremony reflecting on its growth and progress while looking towards a future of inclusivity and sustainability.

The Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) and the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) expressed their commitments to achieving an inclusive and sustainable development vision for Kuching.

DBKU Mayor Hilmy Othman said this effort aligns with the Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS2030), introduced by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg in July 2021, which seeks to propel the state’s growth through innovation and data-driven strategies.

He emphasised that DBKU has restructured its strategies and approaches through the DBKU Strategic Plan 2022-2030.

This, he said, is based on the Clean, Beautiful, Safe, Smart, Sustainable (CBSSS) approach to ensure economic prosperity, social inclusiveness, and environmental sustainability.

“This year, DBKU has successfully launched several initiatives, including the creation of 51 Friendly Neighbourhoods (KJM) aimed at enhancing community inclusiveness and developing the local socio-economy.

“Additionally, DBKU has partnered with various non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to boost public awareness on urbanisation issues,” he said.

He said this during the 36th Anniversary Celebration of Kuching City at MBKS Square, which was officiated by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

Hilmy noted that a significant initiative for DBKU this year is the upcoming Sarawak Urban Forum 1.0 in October.

“This forum will offer local authorities in Sarawak the chance to exchange ideas on smart city development, low-carbon cities, and the circular economy,” he added.

Under the leadership of Kuching South Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng, MBKS has also shown a similar commitment.

Its initiatives include establishing the Kuching South Children’s Council, advancing senior-friendly city efforts, and installing smart closed-circuit television (CCTV) in key areas to improve security.

Wee echoed the sentiments of celebration and progress, emphasising Kuching South’s role in the city’s overall development.

In 2023, Wee noted that MBKS launched the construction of the Gastronomy Centre, which is slated for completion in 2026.

This initiative aims to promote Kuching’s gastronomic culture and attract global tourists.

He said MBKS also stressed the importance of low-carbon city initiatives by promoting green transportation and sustainable waste management.

“Programmes such as the iBuyBack Campaign app and the ‘Waste Bank’ have been introduced to encourage recycling.

“Furthermore, MBKS is enhancing efforts to promote Kuching on the international stage through participation in conferences like the UNESCO Creative Cities Network Annual Conference,” he added.

He added that projects like the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) Sarawak Project and the recognition of the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) reflect a shared vision for advancing the state towards its 2030 goals.

As such, Wee expressed pride in the achievements and progress made under the combined efforts of both city councils.

“As we celebrate Kuching City’s 36th anniversary, let us continue to work together, leaving no one behind, to build a city that is inclusive, sustainable, and vibrant for all.

“Our unity and shared commitment are the foundations upon which we will continue to build our city’s future.

“This celebration, underpinned by the Sarawak Post COVID-19 Development Strategy and the Sustainable Development Goals, is a testament to our dedication to building a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable city for generations to come,” Wee added.