Dr Sim confident SMC will strengthen services in drive towards sustainable Sibu by 2031

SIBU (Dec 20): Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian has expressed confidence that the Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) will continue to strengthen municipal services as it works towards its vision of building a liveable and sustainable city by 2031.

The Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government said the services encompass public health and environmental sustainability, people-centred community development, municipal service delivery, as well as digital transformation and smart city initiatives.

“With the commitment shown by the Council and its partners, Sibu is on the right path towards becoming a modern, sustainable, and forward-looking city,” he added at the SMC Appreciation Night 2025 held last night.

His text-of-speech was delivered by Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng.

Among those present were SMC chairman Clarence Ting, acting secretary Sait Enggang, and event organising chairlady Amelia Tiu Siew Yian.

Sim said local government work is often demanding and complex, requiring strong commitment.

He noted that SMC plays an important role in ensuring the city runs smoothly, from public health and cleanliness to community programmes, infrastructure services, smart city initiatives and enforcement.

“Much of this work is done quietly, without expectation of recognition. But tonight, we pause to acknowledge your contributions.

“Tonight is about you, your dedication, your professionalism and your service to the people of Sibu,” he said.

He also commended various agencies, non-governmental organisations, community leaders, corporate collaborators and others who have worked hand in hand with the council throughout the year.

“Your collective efforts have strengthened Sibu’s development and improved the wellbeing of its residents,” he said.

Sim also touched on the various SMC achievements obtained during the year.

He said these included the ASEAN Clean Tourist City Award (2024-2026), 3rd Place School Recycling Competition 2024 (Local Authority Category, Southern Zone), Champion 2023/2024 Premier of Sarawak Environmental Award (PSEA), scored 99 pct (Excellent) – 2025 SCS Audit Scorecard and overall Champion Inter-Council Sports Championship (Central Zone) for 2 Consecutive Years (2024 & 2025)

Other achievements included attaining Sustainable City status under the Malaysian Urban-Rural National Indicators Network for Sustainable Development (MURNInets) for two consecutive years (2024 and 2025); entry into the Malaysia Book of Records for “Most Visitors Swinging on ITUT (Melanau Swing)”; the Young Leader of Sarawak Award 2025 received by Sibu Child Council member Nur Aleesya Dayana; and the Clean Audit Certificate 2024.

On the appreciation night, Sim said it also served as a reminder that progress is never achieved alone, but is the result of teamwork between the council, government agencies, community groups and the people of Sibu.

“Sibu is a diverse and harmonious town. Its strength lies in its unity, its culture and its people.

“When we work together across all levels, we build a Sibu that is cleaner, safer, greener and more vibrant,” he said.