Mayor: MBKS working with other agencies to monitor ART project areas to safeguard public safety

KUCHING (March 3): The Kuching South City Council (MBKS) is closely monitoring areas affected by the ongoing Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) project to ensure public safety is not compromised.

Kuching South Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said that although the ART project is implemented by a different agency, the council does not distance itself from issues arising at the project sites.

“As a city council, we work with everyone. Even though the ART project is not directly under us, when sites are handed over, matters such as lighting, road conditions and other public safety components must be properly addressed.

“We do not distance ourselves from these issues,” he told reporters after officiating at the Tay Motors Kota Sentosa branch’s Chap Goh Mei celebration here.

Wee stressed that MBKS adopts a collaborative approach, assisting and monitoring relevant parties to ensure issues are resolved promptly.

“We cannot say this is your site and therefore your problem. We are here to serve the people, regardless of whose formal responsibility it may be. It is part and parcel of our duty to assist and ensure issues are resolved,” he said.

He added that the council works closely with relevant agencies, including liaising with the ART project team to expedite rectification works and coordinating with the Water Board and other authorities when necessary.

“When problems are brought to our attention, we immediately coordinate with the responsible agencies to speed up solutions. We are serving as one government, and ultimately, we are serving the people,” he said.

Wee also called on elected representatives, particularly those from the Sarawak Democratic Action Party (DAP), to focus on cooperation rather than blame.

“It should not be about one party acting while another accuses. Let us channel our energy into delivering better services.

“That is what the people expect from us. What the people want is better service and results,” he said.

Earlier, Wee noted that the Tay Motors Kota Sentosa branch’s Chap Goh Mei celebration — now in its fourth year — marked not only the symbolic close of Chinese New Year but also served as a platform to promote cultural understanding and inclusivity.

He highlighted that the organiser distributed 1,000 packets of rice to the needy, reflecting Sarawak’s caring and compassionate spirit.

“In Sarawak, we do not only celebrate festivals; we celebrate together and ensure no one is left behind. It is not only the government’s role to look after the B40 group, but the private sector also plays an important part in building a strong and caring society,” he said.

Wee added that Sarawak’s unique approach to celebrating festivals across racial and religious lines remains a source of pride.

“Let us continue this practice and be proud Sarawakians. We not only take care of our own people but also protect Sarawak’s interests,” he said.

Also present were Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) chairman Tan Kai and Tay Motors owner Aaron Tay.