KUCHING: The Kuching South City Council (MBKS) has emerged as one of the most prominent local authorities in Sarawak with its workforce serving as the “driving engineers” for the state’s other 26 local authorities.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said MBKS’ role is no longer confined to Kuching South but has also become a model in strengthening Sarawak’s growing reputation and standing.
“If you are a driving engineer in MBKS, you are also a driving force for about 800 to nearly 900 other local councillors throughout Sarawak,” he said when speaking at the MBKS Gawai Dayak Get-Together here on Wednesday (June 24).
Dr Sim, who is also Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, said the aspiration to be the best must be instilled at every level within MBKS, from the mayor, councillors, officers and staff to cleaning personnel.
“Providing excellent service in today’s digital era requires prompt responses, transparency and professional solutions in line with the public’s increasingly high expectations of government services,” he added.
“Professionalism at every level is not only about having knowledge but also about how we respond, our attitude, discipline and sense of responsibility so that the people will continue to trust us.”
Elaborating further, he said public trust must be safeguarded by treating people with respect and delivering the best possible service despite the various challenges and demands faced by local authorities.
“In addition, integrity in public service is not merely about avoiding corruption but also reflects a person’s sincerity in doing what is right,” Dr Sim added.
“Local authorities are the third tier of government and are at the forefront because they are closest to the people in their daily lives.
“In this regard, the public deals with MBKS on a wide range of matters, including licensing, public health, enforcement, maintenance, landscaping and community programmes.”
Dr Sim also expressed his appreciation to MBKS for its continuous efforts in implementing various initiatives, including smart city programmes, community and environmental projects, the UNICEF Child-Friendly City initiative, the Kuching Festival and the World Health Organisation (WHO) Age-Friendly City programme.
“Local authorities are the third tier of government and are on the frontline because they are closest to the people in their daily affairs. As such, the public frequently interacts with MBKS in many aspects of daily life,” he said.
“These include licensing, public health, enforcement, maintenance, landscaping, city initiatives and community programmes.”
Meanwhile, Kuching South Mayor, Datuk Wee Hong Seng, said MBKS’ strength lies in the diversity of its workforce, united in delivering the best possible service to local residents.
“Although MBKS faces criticism from certain quarters, differing views and constructive feedback are always respected as they should not distract our workforce from its core mission of serving the people with dedication,” he stressed.
