MBKS tightens safety oversight of waste transport operations following public concerns

Wee responding to public feedback regarding the transportation method of waste materials by a council vehicle during his ShallWeeTalk live session on June 20, 2026.

By Karen Bong

KUCHING, June 20: The Kuching South City Council (MBKS) has taken responsibility and will further tighten safety procedures involving waste transportation following public concerns over a council vehicle seen carrying bulky waste.

During his ShallWeeTalk live session today, Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng expressed MBKS’ appreciation for public feedback regarding the transportation method of waste materials by one of its operational vehicles and assured that the council is treating the matter seriously.

Based on photographs circulated online, he acknowledged that the way certain items were transported may have posed a potential road safety risk.

“The council takes such concerns seriously as the safety of road users, pedestrians and our own staff remains a top priority,” he said.

Wee also acknowledged that the public should be informed that the vehicle was deployed to collect bulky waste and discarded materials from illegal dumping hotspots within Kuching South, including Lorong Keranji 4F, Tabuan Square, Tabuan Jaya, and the vicinity of Sungai Apong Market.

“These locations have been the subject of repeated illegal dumping activities, requiring immediate clean-up by MBKS staff to protect public health, environmental cleanliness and community well-being,” he said.

He also highlighted the demanding nature of frontline operations, saying that “every day, MBKS frontline staff work under challenging conditions to clear illegally discarded furniture, construction debris, household waste and other bulky items abandoned by irresponsible parties.”

Nevertheless, Wee stressed that operational standards must be strictly upheld, adding that MBKS accepts that all operational activities must comply with safety requirements.

“The council has reminded the relevant division and all operational staff to exercise greater vigilance in securing loads during transportation and to strictly adhere to all road safety procedures,” he said.

While MBKS appreciates constructive public feedback, he urged the community to understand the broader operational challenges on the ground and to recognise the dedication and hard work of frontline staff.

Wee also reiterated that cleanliness is a shared responsibility, calling on residents to dispose of waste properly and refrain from illegal dumping activities.

He reaffirmed MBKS’s commitment to safeguarding public safety, protecting the environment and ensuring efficient municipal services for the people of Kuching South. — DayakDaily