Abdul Karim: Kuching’s Dock Lane may be revived with modern open-air market concept

KUCHING (April 5): Dock Lane, once a bustling stretch in Kuching lined with hawker stalls about 30 years ago, may see a revival through a more modern approach.

Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said an open-air market concept could be reintroduced to further enliven the street.

“If you look at the area, the hawker presence is still there, although it is different from the past,” he told reporters after launching the new urban art mural near the Brooke Dockyard on Sunday.

“I was made to understand that there are indeed plans to develop trading spaces next to the Brooke Dockyard in a more modern way.”

While the original concept may not be replicated in its entirety, Abdul Karim said future developments would focus on creating a more structured, vibrant and visitor-friendly environment.

“Areas that are still frequented for food, such as the open-air market, may be retained or redeveloped in a more vibrant manner following the times,” he added.

He also noted that compared to previous years, the area has been revitalised, bringing new potential, particularly in attracting tourism with the introduction of the new mural.

“Comparing the past with today, the area now looks much more cheerful, especially with the colourful mural creating a lively atmosphere,” he said.

Abdul Karim added that such efforts reflect the natural evolution of the city, where heritage elements are adapted to remain relevant while enhancing the overall urban landscape.

Created by local artist Kong Chak Kiong, better known as Jagung, the Dock Lane mural carrying the theme ‘Left to Right Flow: The Timeline of Kuching’s Waterfront Legacy’ is an initiative by the Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) aimed at enhancing the city’s visual landscape and strengthening its cultural identity.

Also present during the launching were Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Project Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, DBKU, and Islamic Affairs) Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi and Kuching North Datuk Bandar Dato Hilmy Othman.