KUCHING: The Kuching South City Council (MBKS) is establishing a dedicated Task Force for Padungan Heritage Buildings as part of ongoing efforts to conserve and protect one of the city’s most historically significant districts.
Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng announced that the task force will concentrate on conducting technical and structural assessments, identifying conservation requirements, and implementing improvement measures to ensure the heritage buildings remain safe and sustainable for future generations.
“Padungan is an important part of Kuching’s heritage and cultural identity. Preserving its historical buildings is not only about protecting physical structures, but also about safeguarding the character and history of the area for future generations,” Wee said.
He expressed gratitude to the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) Sarawak, under the leadership of chairman Dr Angelia Liew San Chuin, for agreeing to collaborate and contribute professional expertise to the initiative.
He also acknowledged the support of the Public Works Department Sarawak and local consultants for their commitment to the project.
The task force will operate as a coordinated platform bringing together MBKS, IEM Sarawak, government agencies, and professional consultants to ensure systematic and responsible execution of technical evaluations and conservation measures.
Wee revealed that the Sarawak Heritage Council and Old Kuching Smart Heritage (OKSHE) will be engaged to provide guidance on heritage significance, conservation principles, and historical context, supporting long-term heritage planning for the area.
Looking ahead, he indicated that once structural assessments confirm the buildings are in satisfactory condition, MBKS will consider gazetting the Padungan row as a formally recognised heritage area.
“With strong collaboration and expert guidance, we are confident that this initiative can be implemented in a structured and sustainable way, balancing heritage preservation with urban development.”
