KUCHING: A repainted traditional fishing boat at the Bintawa roundabout will remain the centrepiece of a beautification project aimed at preserving the area’s heritage while enhancing public spaces.
Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor, Datuk Wee Hong Seng, said the project, estimated to cost below RM100,000, includes landscaping, walkways, lighting and other improvements designed to transform the roundabout into a community landmark.
“The boat is not just a boat. It is a story. It is the story of Bintawa,” he said during the launching ceremony and handover of the repainted boat.
Wee said Bintawa began as a fishing village, where life revolved around the river and the fishing boat was once an important part of daily life for fishermen and their families.
He added that the beautification project was more than just a physical upgrade, as it aimed to create meaningful spaces that people could connect with while preserving the community’s identity and roots.
“Visitors are not just looking for places. They are looking for stories. Urban development is not just about constructing tall buildings. What matters most is creating a space with humanity, stories and a sense of belonging,” he added.
The first phase of the beautification project, estimated at between RM40,000 and RM50,000, has already been completed, while future phases will involve electrical works and lighting to brighten the area for both day and night visits.
The upgraded roundabout will eventually feature pedestrian access for visitors to walk in and take photographs, while temporary parking spaces are also being considered nearby.
He noted that Bintawa has gradually evolved from a fishing settlement into an industrial area and is now becoming increasingly residential, making it important to introduce recreational and tourism-friendly spaces for the community.
“The boat would continue to stand at the roundabout as a reminder for future generations to remain connected to their roots while moving forward with development”, he said.
