MCC warns of action against those installing illegal structures at shophouse five-foot ways

MIRI (Oct 29): The Miri City Council (MCC) will take stern action against business owners installing illegal structures at the five-foot way of shophouses, said Mayor Adam Yii.

He said this issue has been concerning, to the extent these illegal structures obstruct the five-foot way.

“MCC is resolutely committed to the safety and wellbeing of our community. Therefore, our stance against this is firm and we wish to emphasise the necessity of adhering to established regulations,” he told a press conference on Monday.

He said in 2023, records showed a total of 24 cases undertaken by MCC’s Engineering Section on illegal structures at five-foot ways with 12 notices issued against the offenders, three cases resolved and nine investigations conducted.

As of October this year, eight cases were reported, of which six notices were issued, one case resolved and one investigation conducted.

That said, Yii reminded all residents and business owners that any construction or installation in these public areas must strictly comply with existing standard operating procedures.

“Illegal structures not only contravene these regulations but also pose significant risks to public safety and accessibility,” he cautioned.

He warned the council would not tolerate violations of these regulations and urged all community members to respect shared spaces and report any suspected illegal construction to MCC.

Yii also noted MCC has observed illegal structures on state land, road reserves and designated parking lots within the council’s jurisdiction.

“The council is committed to maintaining the integrity of public spaces and will take strict enforcement action against individuals responsible for these unlawful constructions. This includes the immediate removal of any structures deemed illegal and potential penalties will be imposed on the offenders,” he added.

In 2023, six cases were reported, of which three notices were issued against offenders, one case resolved and two investigations conducted.

Yii stressed public land is preserved for its intended use and any construction on them is deemed illegal.