KUCHING: Innovation and integrity must be advanced in tandem to ensure that the Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) continues to serve as a model local authority (PBT) that delivers efficient, responsive and trustworthy public services.
Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, DBKU and Islamic Affairs) Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi said DBKU Innovation and Integrity Day 2025 serves as a vital platform to showcase achievements while fostering excellence in governance and public service delivery.
“I am pleased to see DBKU consistently seeking creative new approaches in urban management, such as the use of smart technology in traffic management, more efficient waste disposal systems, and digital platforms to facilitate public services.
“With these innovative approaches, not only is service effectiveness enhanced, but added value is also created for the public experience, ensuring that Kuching remains relevant and competitive,” he said.
Abdul Rahman was speaking at the opening ceremony of DBKU Innovation and Integrity Day 2025 held at a hotel here last night (Dec 15).
He said the celebration of Innovation Day also provides recognition and appreciation to individuals who produce high-impact innovations to drive organisational progress, including in technical aspects, in order to deliver the best services to the public.
“Innovation is not merely about introducing new technology. To ensure its effectiveness and successful implementation, it must begin with new ways of thinking, the courage to try, and the willingness to abandon practices that are no longer relevant,” he said.
At the same time, he emphasised integrity as a fundamental pillar to ensure that every action and decision by DBKU remains transparent, fair, and accountable, while upholding high integrity standards at every level of management.
“These efforts begin with top management, policy planning, project implementation, resource allocation, and extend to daily interactions with the community, ensuring freedom from conflicts of interest and prioritising the public interest.
“Integrity is not only about honesty in action, but also the courage to make the right decisions, even when they are difficult or unpopular,” he explained.
Elaborating further, he said that when integrity is combined with innovation, it creates a public service ecosystem that is not only efficient and responsive, but also earns public trust.
“Innovation without integrity can lead to abuse, while integrity without innovation can result in delays, complexity, and inefficiency.
“Only in this way can DBKU maintain public confidence and continue to fulfil its mandate as a responsible, innovative, and integrity-driven local authority,” he said.
In a related development, Abdul Rahman also commended DBKU’s achievements, which have not only excelled at the local level but have also received recognition on the international stage, proving its capability in delivering world-class city services that meet global standards.
“These achievements demonstrate that DBKU is not merely carrying out routine duties, but is continuously moving forward as a progressive organisation that keeps pace with current demands.
“Therefore, through DBKU’s strategic role in urban planning, public service management, and infrastructure development, DBKU contributes directly to the Sarawak government’s vision of building smart cities that are inclusive and people-friendly,” he added.
