Comply with MBKS rules to ensure safety, cleanliness, Kuching South Mayor tells durian sellers

KUCHING (Jan 20): The Kuching South City Council (MBKS) has urged durian sellers to adhere to council regulations, warning that enforcement is necessary to protect public safety, cleanliness, and fairness for local farmers.

Kuching South Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said the council has always managed seasonal fruit sales fairly and reasonably, providing designated sites such as the Tabuan Jaya seasonal market for traders.

“We hope everybody knows where they should display and sell their seasonal fruits.

“The council has allocated space at Tabuan Jaya, and we expect sellers to be reasonable — don’t block other businesses or walkways, and keep the area clean,” he told a press conference at the MBKS building here.

Wee’s remarks came after a recent incident in Miri, where durians were seized by enforcement officers at parking areas and roadside stalls, sparking public attention.

The mayor stressed that enforcement is a last resort, applied only after repeated warnings.

Traders typically receive five to eight warnings before action is taken, especially when oversupply or improper placement affects traffic flow, pedestrian access, or local businesses.

“Usually, complaints come from pedestrians. Especially during the rainy season, the five-foot way is meant for walking and shelter. When stalls block it, people can’t pass, and sometimes traffic jams occur.

“That’s why we advise vendors to make sure they don’t block or affect others,” he said.

Wee also clarified that the seasonal fruit programme is intended solely for local produce; imported fruits do not receive the same privileges.

He reminded the public and traders that centralising seasonal fruit sales in designated areas helps improve market focus, reduce congestion, and minimise complaints from pedestrians and nearby businesses.

“We understand times are hard and people want to make a living. We will help, but everyone must also discipline themselves,” he said, urging durian sellers to use seasonal markets and follow council regulations, stressing that MBKS enforcement is guided by fairness and the law, not arbitrary decisions.