MBKS mayor calls for unity, vigilance in preserving India Street’s heritage and progress

Wee (seated, centre) together with the committee members of India Street Merchants Association Kuching in a photo after its AGM on Sept 17, 2024.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Sept 17: Dato Wee Hong Seng, newly reappointed as president of the India Street Merchants Association Kuching, has called for unity and vigilance against potential external interference to safeguard the ongoing progress and prosperity of the 140-year-old heritage area.

Speaking at the conclusion of the Association’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) today, Wee shared that negotiations with authorities are ongoing to further modernise India Street, aligning it with Kuching City’s transition into a smart city embracing new technologies.

“It is my wish to see everyone continue working together for the betterment of India Street Pedestrian Mall.

“As we advance towards a high-tech environment, adopting measures like e-invoicing and addressing wage increases, we face numerous challenges. It is crucial that we tackle these challenges collectively to ensure the continued success and growth of our area,” he said in a statement today.

Wee, who is also Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor, emphasised that India Street is not merely a street but the heart and home of many merchants who have dedicated generations to its development, from a street to a covered Pedestrian Mall offering all kinds products and services today.

“Many of us were born in India Street. We grew up and spent our lives in India Street. It is also where we have established our careers and earn our livelihoods.

“Together, we have gone through all the ups and downs, but we have all achieved much. We have managed to go through the good and bad times and persevered for a simple reason – we all worked as a team regardless of race, religion or differences,” he said.

Acknowledging that disagreements and issues are inevitable, Wee expressed confidence that members will work diligently to resolve and address these challenges for the benefit of all.

“We must avoid fostering hatred or mistrust among ourselves. Our focus should be on preserving the harmony and friendship established by our ancestors. We must work unitedly, ensuring our agenda benefits everyone rather than serving individual interests,” he added. — DayakDaily