KUCHING: The UCCN Gastronomy Pavilion at the Kuching Festival Fair has been temporarily closed following damage caused by strong winds and heavy rain yesterday evening.
The weather conditions affected the pavilion’s marquee tent, with its middle section blowing off, resulting in damage to several stalls operating within the affected area.
Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng said the temporary closure was necessary to ensure the safety of vendors, workers and members of the public.
“Most importantly, no injuries were reported, and everyone at the site is safe,” he said in a press statement on today (Aug 16).
Wee said the pavilion would remain closed for two days to allow MBKS personnel to conduct inspections, clean-up operations and necessary repair works.
He said the decision was taken as a precautionary measure, particularly given the prevailing weather conditions that could pose further risks to those at the site.
“The safety of our vendors, workers and members of the public remains our highest priority,” he said, stressing that unnecessary risks would not be taken.
He added that MBKS personnel were already at the location to assess the extent of the damage and determine appropriate measures.
The personnel are also making arrangements to secure the affected structures and surrounding area before repair and restoration works can proceed.
Wee stressed that the temporary closure only involved the UCCN Gastronomy Pavilion and would not affect other areas of the Kuching Festival Fair.
“All other stalls and activities at the Kuching Festival Fair are not affected and will continue to operate as usual,” he said.
The UCCN Gastronomy Pavilion is among the attractions at the Kuching Festival Fair, featuring various food offerings and gastronomic activities for visitors.
Wee apologised for any inconvenience caused by the temporary closure and thanked vendors as well as members of the public for their understanding.
The pavilion is expected to reopen after the inspection, clean-up and repair works are completed, subject to the safety assessment by the council.
