KUCHING: The Kuching Bicycle and Motor-Traders Association has celebrated its 70th anniversary, highlighting the motorcycle industry’s transformation, stronger cooperation with the government and Sarawak’s growing market potential.
Association chairman Law Kin Hin said the anniversary theme, “Seventy Years of Shared Glory – Together as One, We Set Forth Anew”, symbolised the association’s achievements over the past seven decades and its commitment to future progress.
Speaking during the gala dinner, he thanked Deputy Premier of Sarawak Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian and the Sarawak leadership under Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg for fostering political stability and maintaining close engagement with grassroots communities and businesses.
“It is precisely because of the Sarawak leadership’s foresight, excellent governance, long-term political stability, and social harmony that a safe, stable, and vibrant business environment has been created for all of us.
“Also by maintaining close engagement with grassroots communities and businesses, this direct bridge of communication is vital for shaping a better and more prosperous Sarawak,” he said during the association’s anniversary dinner at Shangri-La City One here last night (May 16).
Law also noted that the motorcycle trade had undergone major changes in recent years, evolving from a traditionally viewed trade into a more professional and respected technical industry.
“In the past, the public often held a stereotypical impression of motorcycle repair and sales shops as being messy or unorganised.
However, today, modern motorcycle dealerships and workshops are clean, well-regulated, professional and sophisticated,” he said.
He added that the association plans to focus on technical education, digital training, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications while encouraging more youth participation to ensure the industry’s long-term sustainability.
Meanwhile, Malaysia Motorcycle and Scooter Dealers Association (MMSDA) president Datuk Wee Hong described the association’s 70th anniversary as a significant milestone, noting that it was established in 1957, before Malaya gained independence.
“Over the past 70 years, generations of predecessors have worked quietly and selflessly, laying a strong foundation that has enabled the association to grow steadily into what it is today.
“It has a very long history and is one of the most representative and influential organisations in Malaysia’s motorcycle industry,” he said.
He said Sarawak’s motorcycle market holds strong growth potential due to rapid development in cities such as Kuching, Miri, Sibu and Bintulu, coupled with increasing demand for affordable transportation and delivery services.
“With the continued development of the Pan Borneo Highway and improving road conditions, I believe more people will become involved in leisure riding, long-distance touring and motorcycle culture,” added Wee.
