MBKS to assess ‘not Bomba-friendly’ roads, address infra gaps to make Sungai Apong safer

Nine Emperors Temple working committee, community leaders, and residents of Jalan Selangan Batu posed for a photo with Wee (fifth from the left) during the 'Mayor's Lunch Gathering with the Community of Jalan Selangan Batu', held near the Nine Emperors Temple in conjunction with the Chinese New Year Celebration on Feb 25, 2026.

By Wilfred Pilo

KUCHING, Feb 25: The Kuching City South Council (MBKS) has assured residents of Sungai Apong, particularly those living near Jalan Selangan Batu, that it will take firm action to address pressing fire safety concerns affecting some 100 households.

MBKS Mayor Wee Hong Seng said the council had engaged the Fire and Rescue Department Malaysia (Bomba) Sarawak to conduct a site survey and inspect the area’s fire hydrant infrastructure.

He confirmed that while the hydrants are in working condition, there are issues with water pressure, which will be addressed by the water utility company.

“These are among the urgent issues raised by residents to the government. As the area falls under our jurisdiction, the council is duty-bound to assist.

“No one within our city should be left behind when it comes to safety and infrastructure development that could affect their livelihood. The government will ensure proper infrastructure is in place for the community. We must work together, it cannot be one-way traffic,” he said when met by reporters at the ‘Mayor’s Lunch Gathering with the Community of Jalan Selangan Batu’, held near the Nine Emperors Temple in conjunction with the Chinese New Year Celebration 2026 today.

He added that MBKS will reassess road accessibility in the area, particularly stretches that are narrow and not “Bomba-friendly”, and will relocate fire extinguishers previously distributed to residents to more strategic and visible locations for easier access during emergencies.

“These fire extinguishers should be placed in easily accessible areas, such as within the temple compound. We will also invite Bomba to conduct demonstrations on the proper use of the equipment and hold awareness briefings,” he said.

The council also plans to enhance street lighting in the neighbourhood, especially along dark alleyways, by installing 10 LED lights to improve visibility and safety for residents of all ages.

“We will continue monitoring basic infrastructure and issues in densely populated residential areas, including Padungan, Kenyalang Park and Bintawa,” he added.
Wee further encouraged former residents who have found success elsewhere to return and support family members still living in Sungai Apong, working hand in hand with the council to build a more vibrant community.

“We want stronger community engagement. The city does not belong solely to the government, it belongs to everyone. By respecting one another’s ideas and opinions, we can move forward together and foster a true sense of belonging,” he said.

During the event, Wee also distributed rice packets, sugar, mandarin oranges, rice cakes and angpows to residents, courtesy of the Nine Emperors Temple working committee.

Also present were Padawan Municipal Council chairman Tan Kai, political secretary to the Premier’s Department Kho Teck Wan, MBKS councillors and community leaders. — DayakDaily