KUCHING: The Sarawak government is planning to renovate the General Post Office building along Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg after taking over the heritage property from the federal government.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the state government is currently negotiating with the federal government to acquire the former post office building.
He said only minor renovations would be carried out to maintain the building’s heritage value.
“We are negotiating to take over the building.
“Then we renovate it, but we have to maintain its heritage value,” he told reporters after officiating at the grand opening of voco Kuching Hotel by IHG here today (Jul 28).
Abang Johari said the historical post office was among several heritage buildings, including those along Jalan Haji Taha and Ban Hock Road, identified for possible revitalisation.
However, he said any redevelopment of privately owned buildings would depend on their respective owners.
He said the state government encouraged owners to repurpose older buildings for new functions while preserving their heritage value.
“It is up to the owners to redesign their buildings. But the core heritage building cannot be altered,” he added.
