Shared effort earns MBKS third clean city recognition

KUCHING: Cooperation among residents, businesses and community groups has helped Kuching South City Council (MBKS) secure its third consecutive national recognition under the ASEAN Clean Tourist City Standard.

Kuching South Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng credited their contributions, alongside those of council staff, for the recognition covering the 2026-2028 period.

“Keeping the city clean requires continuous cooperation from everyone, including proper waste disposal, responsible use of public facilities and care for shared spaces,” he said.

The recognition, awarded at the national level under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia (MOTAC), confirms that MBKS has met the prescribed standards for the category.

MBKS said in a statement that the latest recognition follows those received for the 2022-2024 and 2024-2026 periods.

The achievement also complements Kuching’s UNESCO City of Gastronomy status, with cleanliness playing a role in visitors’ experience of its food, markets and dining spaces.

A well-maintained environment supports local food businesses while strengthening the city’s appeal to tourists.

MBKS said it would continue improving cleanliness and public amenities, while encouraging greater community participation in maintaining these standards.