THE newly implemented Kuching Smart Parking System is designed to make parking payments more convenient and cashless with the app-based system aiming to modernise city parking while reducing congestion and enforcement issues.
To gauge public response, Sarawak Tribune spoke to several Kuching residents, from working adults to business owners and senior motorists, to find out what they think about the system’s ease of use, effectiveness and areas for improvement.
Tedy Jihog, 38 , General Service Assistant:
As someone who works in the city every day, I actually find the new Kuching Smart Parking System very practical. Before this, it was a hassle having to look for parking coupons or worry about expired tickets.
Now, I can just open the app, select my parking zone, and make payment instantly. It’s cashless and saves a lot of time, especially when I’m rushing to work or meetings. I also like that I can renew my parking session remotely without having to walk back to my car. The system feels modern and aligns well with the city’s move towards smart technology.
However, I do think there’s room for improvement. It would be helpful if the app could show which areas still have available parking spaces before we even arrive, kind of like a live parking map. That way, we can plan ahead and avoid driving in circles looking for a spot.
But overall, I think it’s a great step forward for Kuching. The city is finally catching up with digital conveniences that other major cities already have.
SUSANNA PETER, 38, Admin:
The idea is good, but not everyone finds it easy to use, especially the older generation. I used to just buy parking coupons from the shop near my house, scratch the date, and put it on my dashboard. Now everything is through an app, and some of us are not used to smartphones.
I think the local council should consider offering a simple guidebook or even hold short tutorials at community centres to help senior citizens understand how to use the system.
Another good idea is to have a hybrid option, maybe still allow physical payments at certain kiosks or machines. Not everyone has a smartphone, and it’s not fair if they get fined just because of that.
MASTIJAH RAFAIEE, 52 Business owner:
I own a small stall at Petra Jaya, and I park nearby almost every day. At first, the new system was confusing. The app kept logging out and didn’t recognise the parking zones properly.
But after the recent updates, it’s improved a lot. I like that I get reminders before my parking expires, so I don’t get unnecessary fines. The convenience is there, and I don’t need to hunt for parking coupons anymore.
My only issue is with the payment gateway. Sometimes the system fails to connect or deducts money late, which can cause misunderstanding. If they can stabilise that and ensure smooth transactions, I think more people will support it. For me, it’s a learning curve, but I’m starting to get used to it.
RAJIMAH RADIO, 61, Not working:
To be honest, the app can be frustrating at times. It’s supposed to make parking easier, but there are moments when it does the opposite.
I once tried to pay, and the app froze. I thought the transaction went through, but later found out it didn’t and I got a summon for unpaid parking. That really turned me off.
Not everyone has a strong internet connection when they’re on the go, and sometimes you just want a quick, reliable system. If the developers can fix the lag and ensure stable payment processing, maybe people will have more confidence using it.
Right now, many are still sceptical. I like the concept, but execution is key. For a system that’s supposed to make life easier, it should be foolproof, especially for parents or workers who are constantly on the move.
