Public safety non-negotiable at construction sites, says Kuching South Mayor following Stutong crane incident

KUCHING (March 4): Public safety must remain the top priority at construction sites, especially those near residential areas, said Kuching South Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng.

He stressed that there can be no compromise on safety compliance at construction sites within the jurisdiction of the Kuching South City Council (MBKS).

“Public safety is our highest priority. Developers and contractors must strictly adhere to all safety requirements to prevent such incidents,” he said in a statement following a crane incident that damaged two houses at Lorong Stutong Baru 4 here last month.

The Feb 12 incident saw a crane from a nearby construction site topple onto two neighbouring houses.

Although no injuries were reported, both homes sustained damage, particularly to their roof structures. Repair works by the developer have since begun.

Following the incident, Wee visited the site to assess the situation and sought the assistance from the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) Sarawak to ensure proper engineering processes are observed and public safety considerations addressed.

IEM Sarawak chairperson Dr Angelia Liew San Chuin and vice-chairman Edison Lim Kim Ong joined Wee, MBKS acting city secretary Wong Ming Kong and council officers during the inspection.

IEM Sarawak advised that any determination on the structural integrity and habitability of the affected houses should be based on a formal assessment by an independently appointed structural professional engineer with a Practising Certificate (PEPC) registered with the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM).

The engineering body also stressed the importance of proper documentation and certification for rectification works to ensure long-term safety and compliance.

Wee expressed appreciation to IEM Sarawak for its prompt response and professional support.

“MBKS expects full cooperation from the developer and all relevant parties to facilitate a thorough investigation. The affected residents must be given a fair, transparent and timely resolution,” he said.

He added that the council will continue to monitor the situation closely and will not hesitate to take firm action in the event of any non-compliance with safety regulations.