KUCHING: Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) has pledged to work together with its counterpart, Kuching South City Council (MBKS) to safeguard the city’s cultural landmarks.
The undertaking came from DBKU Mayor Datuk Hilmy Othman following renewed concerns over the state of heritage buildings in the city.
Concerns arose after a front portion of a shop wall along Jalan Padungan, which is under MBKS jurisdiction, gave way recently.
The incident has prompted city authorities to step up collaborative efforts to ensure the safety and longevity of Kuching’s heritage structures.
Hilmy pledged to work closely with his counterpart, MBKS Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng.
“This incident serves as a solemn reminder of the importance of proactive measures to protect not only our cultural heritage but also the safety and well-being of our people,” Hilmy said.
He emphasised the significance of Kuching’s iconic heritage sites such as the shop houses along Gambier Street and Carpenter Street, the Kuching Waterfront, the General Post Office, and the Brooke Dockyard.
“These sites are not just physical structures; they are living symbols of our identity, our past, and our shared community pride,” he added.
He said that DBKU will be cooperating with MBKS, relevant agencies, and heritage conservation authorities to enhance the safety and upkeep of historical buildings.
This includes comprehensive inspections of ageing structures and strengthening maintenance regulations to ensure compliance with safety standards.
“Our priority is to preserve the structural integrity of our heritage sites while ensuring public safety.
“By doing so, we aim to foster a safe and conducive environment for professionals involved in preservation, restoration, and construction efforts,” Hilmy said.
He also called on the public to take an active role in heritage preservation.
“We all have a role to play in safeguarding our cultural identity.
“It is a shared responsibility that must be embraced by every level of society,” he added.
Hilmy also acknowledged the swift response by the Public Works Department (PWD), the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba), and the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) Sarawak, and reaffirmed DBKU’s commitment to working hand-in-hand with these agencies for the betterment of the city.
“Let this moment not only serve as a time of reflection, but also as a catalyst for action and change.
“We owe it to the memories of those before us, and to the generations that follow, to protect our heritage with diligence, unity, and unwavering commitment,” he said.
