KUCHING: The Sarawak Public Works Department (PWD) may carry out random inspections on old buildings to ensure their structural integrity is properly maintained.
Its director Dr Cassidy Morris made this suggestion following a discussion with the Kuching South City Council (MBKS), the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) Sarawak branch, Sarawak Energy Berhad (Sesco), the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba), and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM).
“Buildings will not last 100 years if we do not maintain them. Without proper upkeep, a collapse can happen.
“So, we (PWD) suggest conducting random checks or audits on old buildings in the city. Of course, this initiative will fall under the mayor’s jurisdiction,” he said at a press conference today (Apr 7).
Dr Cassidy also urged property owners planning to construct or extend buildings to prioritise proper construction standards.
“Quality of work is very important. The quality of materials used is also very important.
“That’s what happened in some places in the world — when quality is ignored, buildings collapse,” he said.
Meanwhile, MBKS mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng reminded building owners that any planned extensions must be officially submitted and approved by the council.
“What is the purpose of doing all these extensions if you don’t inform us? You may think your building is worth a lot, but if something happens, it becomes worthless.
“If you are a wise owner, you should protect your building from risks such as fire and other hazards. If there’s a fire and illegal extensions are found, insurance companies won’t pay out. It becomes very difficult to claim,” he said.
Wee stated that do not assume that they (insurance companies) will automatically approve the claims as once they discover unapproved extensions, the case is gone.
