KCPS faces financial strain as parking rates unchanged since 1993, says Dr Sim

KUCHING (Dec 3): Kuching City Parking Sdn Bhd (KCPS) has been grappling with financial challenges as parking rates have remained unchanged since 1993 despite steadily rising operating costs and wages, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.

The State Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government said the Covid-19 pandemic further strained revenues, and KCPS has not paid any directors’ fees since 2021 despite the state government granting a 25 per cent rental reduction during the pandemic to help sustain its operations.

“To improve collections, both councils and KCPS have intensified enforcement through demand notices, court action, a 50 per cent compound discount programme, and Kuching North City Commission’s (DBKU) digital ‘Projek Reformasi Kerenah Birokrasi’ reminders,” he said in his ministerial winding-up speech.

He was responding to Violet Yong (DAP-Pending) regarding directors’ fees and council oversight, and why dividends were only declared between 2008 and 2011 over the past two decades.

Dr Sim said these steps are ensuring better compliance and reducing losses.

“Season parking is restricted and not allowed in high-demand areas such as Carpenter Street, Main Bazaar and China Street to maintain fair parking turnover and ensure fair access to parking to the general public,” he added.

He also said DBKU currently has 32 traffic wardens, with 10 additional personnel reporting for duty on Dec 1, 2025.

“Hopefully with the addition of these new personnel, traffic conditions around Kuching city will improve, ensuring greater convenience and comfort for the residents.”