By Jaythaleela K
MIRI, Nov 15: Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg applauded the Miri City Council (MCC) management team for efficiently transforming the city into a smart city via technology improvement.
“I have selected Miri to be the first city for us to convert into a smart city which includes utilities and public facilities whereby it is connected to the main command centre,” said Abang Johari today during a press conference after declaring open the new Miri City Hall building in Marina Bay.
“In other words, the management and administration of Miri will be more efficient and the services rendered to the people will also be more efficient in terms of payment for utilities and assessment rates, whereby people can pay their bills on their handphones,” he said.
Abang Johari also pointed out that the efficient system adopted by the MCC via the smart city concept has changed the relationship between the local government and the people in their daily transactions.
Impressed with the Miri Smart City’s Safe Park project, which proved its viability when it saved the life of an unconscious man at the push of a panic button, Abang Johari said that it reflects the need (for smart technology) in the city.
“I’ve seen this (smart technology) in South Korea where they used advanced technology which connects the citizens with the local council.
“They installed cameras at strategic areas that allow the council to know what’s happening in the city, and what we (in Sarawak) will do is expand (the system) between municipal councils,” he said.
On another note, Abang Johari described the city hall’s new nine-storey building as a symbol of the people’s unity.
“The building is very iconic and is equipped with smart technology facilities, and Miri is the first to adopt these smart features,” he said.
Abang Johari added that the city hall has long been planned 10 years ago but due to the lack of funds, it was not able to take off.
“In 2018, as we do not want to disturb the city council’s funds, the state government provided an allocation of RM92 million to help build the building.
“This city hall is a reflection of the close collaboration between the government and local council.” — DayakDaily
