KUCHING: Plans are afoot to connect the city’s north and south council areas through what is being billed as a Heritage Mural Trail.
Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng said this would be done this year after work is completed on a mural at Padungan.
“Starting from DBKU (Kuching North City Commission) and ending at MBKS, this trail will be an interesting addition to Kuching in 2024. We have spoken to the minister about it, and a proposal will be submitted,” he said.
“After Chinese New Year, we plan to sit down with DBKU Mayor Hilmy Othman to strategise for upcoming events like Puasa and Hari Raya,” he said, pointing out that the intention is work as Greater Kuching to connect everyone.
Wee was speaking to reporters at a lion dance performance at the bustling India Street on the fifth day of Chinese New Year which is associated with prosperity.
“This annual event is significant, and the DBKU Mayor has suggested making it even bigger next year with more decorations,” he said.
“We want to highlight India Street as part of the Old Kuching Smart Heritage (OKSHe), making it a tourist attraction to complement activities at Kuching Waterfront.”
On his part Hilmy said DBKU aims to create a more lively and vibrant area in Kuching Old Town, including India Street, Carpenter Street, Kai Joo Lane, Lihua Street, and more.
“We want to complement the development at Kuching Waterfront and ensure that no community area is left out,” he said, calling for feedback from associations and NGOs to plan for the vibrancy of India Street and Carpenter Street.
“We want to maintain the heritage, uplift, and upgrade the area without major infrastructure changes,” said Hilmy.
But both mayors pointed out that the city councils cannot do this alone.
Collaboration with the community, NGOs, and associations is crucial for the success of such initiatives, they said.
