DBKU opts for monitoring, not seizure in durian sales enforcement

KUCHING (Jan 18): The Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) has no plans at present to confiscate durians sold without permits but will continue to monitor seasonal traders to ensure compliance with local regulations.

Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, deputy minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Project Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, DBKU, and Islamic Affairs), said all durian-selling activities within DBKU’s jurisdiction must adhere to existing rules and obtain the necessary permits to maintain public order and city cleanliness.

“We are not considering confiscation at this stage, but we will continue to monitor the situation on the ground and issue permits to ensure sales activities are more organised,” he said, adding that such measures are intended to support local, seasonal fruit traders.

“So far, there has been no enforcement action by the DBKU local authority,” he told reporters after the launch of DBKU 2026 Kuching Car Free Morning and events calendar at Padang Merdeka here yesterday.

However, he stressed that traders must comply with regulations, particularly to prevent sales activities from obstructing traffic and to ensure cleanliness is maintained at all times.

Dr Abdul Rahman made the remarks when asked about a recent incident in Miri, where durians were seized by enforcement officers at parking areas and roadside stalls, sparking widespread public reaction.

In a related development, Sarawak Democratic Action Party (DAP) secretary Alan Ling urged local authorities to adopt a more humane and considerate approach toward unpermitted fruit sellers, especially during the current durian season.

While acknowledging that local regulations must be observed, he noted that confiscating fruits from sellers has led to public dissatisfaction.