KUCHING: The Sarawak government is considering implementing a mandatory building inspection system similar to Hong Kong’s, following the frontal wall collapse of a 100-year-old building in Padungan here earlier today.
Deputy Premier cum Public Health, Housing and Local Government Minister, Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, said the idea was inspired by the inspection ordinances observed during his past visits to Hong Kong, Singapore and Australia to study for Sarawak’s Strata Management Ordinance.
He pointed out that Hong Kong’s model of inspecting buildings aged 20 years and above could serve as a reference.
“One of the key practices in Hong Kong is that any building over 20 years old must undergo inspections, particularly the windows, to address risks of disrepair and falling components.
“You could be walking downstairs and suddenly, a window falls and kills you.
“That’s why in Hong Kong, they check every apartment unit,” he said when met by reporters after officiating the Diabetes Awareness Campaign at Vivacity Megamall.
Dr Sim pointed out that with an increasing number of high-rise apartments being built in Kuching, the risk of such accidents might arise in the future.
“We may not face problems with newer buildings that are 20-storey high, but 20 years down the road, we could be dealing with the same risks.
“We need to be proactive in regulating this,” he said.
He added that his ministry will wait for a full report and expert recommendations before deciding on the next steps regarding the wall collapse incident.
“People often underestimate the importance of maintaining old buildings.
“Restoration is expensive, yes, but safety must come first.
“This time it was one building; next time, it could be the one next door,” he said.
He noted that structural cracks usually show signs before a collapse, and these should not be ignored.
“All these cracks don’t just happen overnight. There are always signs.
“That’s why building owners must seek professional help. It’s not just about your own property; it affects others too,” he said.
Dr Sim urged the public not to speculate about the cause of the collapse and to trust the experts to carry out a proper investigation.
“We must trust the experts. They know what to do,” he said.
“Speculating won’t help. Let’s act based on evidence and reports.”
