KUCHING: The Kuching South City Council (MBKS) has completed the RM475,000 upgrading project at Taman Awam BDC in less than three months, marking another milestone in its effort to create a healthier, happier, and more inclusive city for residents.
Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng said the council was grateful for the strong cooperation from residents throughout the construction period.
“Usually, when a site is cleared, it causes some inconvenience, but after a month or so, you can see the result. That small sacrifice is worthwhile,” he said during the park’s site visit today.
Wee expressed appreciation to the federal government, particularly the National Landscape Department under the Ministry of Housing and Local Government, for supporting the project.
“This is a partnership, and we hope for continued support and more funding so that we can do more for the people,” he said, urging community members to advocate for such developments.
The upgraded Taman Awam BDC now features new walkways, a pavilion, a welcoming entrance, freshly painted seating areas, a children’s playground, and exercise equipment for the elderly, designed to make the space more accessible and family-friendly.
Wee said the children’s playground floor is made from recycled tyres produced in Sarawak, a sustainable feature that provides both safety and durability.
The tyre flooring is expected to last between five and eight years before maintenance is required.
He said the project reflected MBKS’s commitment to promoting good health, active lifestyles, and inclusive living, in line with the city’s aspiration to be both child- and age-friendly.
“These projects support the goals of the Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030, which emphasises social inclusivity and environmental sustainability,” he added.
He also highlighted that the improvements contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
At the same time, Wee called on the public to play their part in protecting public property from vandalism.
“Vandalism worries us because public money is used to maintain these facilities. Let’s have shared responsibility. If you see anyone damaging public property, please report it to us,” he said, adding that MBKS can easily be reached through its mobile app or by contacting councillors directly.
Wee also announced that the council is working to complete the final phase of upgrading at Taman Sahabat by early next year, which includes improving lighting and wiring in the area.
“After Taman Sahabat, we will move to the MBKS park. Every park we restore, every tree we plant, and every open space we renew brings us closer to our vision of a city that values its people, protects its environment, and nurtures community spirit,” he said.
He reiterated MBKS’s goal of creating a city that balances progress with sustainability, urging residents to continue supporting the council’s initiatives.
“Let’s make Kuching South cleaner, greener, and healthier for our generation and those to come,” he added.
