MIRI, Aug 30: Kite-flying enthusiasts using improper venues to carry out the traditional sport have led to increasing reports of personal injuries and minor traffic accidents in Miri.
Miri City Mayor Adam Yii Siew Sang noted that kite-flying is a popular activity in the local community and the ideal venue for the pastime is at wide open spaces or outlying areas away from public roads, commercial centres and densely populated residential areas.
“However, the activity has recently become a source of complaints in light of some kite-flying enthusiasts failing to choose a proper place to carry out the activity and apart from this, disregard the potential hazard it may cause to nearby passers-by, motorists and other approaching traffic at the public places.
“There are increasing reports of personal injuries and minor traffic accidents in view of such inconsiderate altitude (sic). Furthermore, there are instances of accusations and arguments between members of both parties in social media,” he said in a statement today.
He added that Miri City Council (MCC) also received public complaints urging authorities overseeing public safety to take stern action.
In light of these undesirable incidents, the mayor has written to the police seeking for their assistance to monitor the activity especially in public places mainly at Tudan, Permyjaya, Luak as well as in other areas.
“It was suggested that should there be an imminent threat to public safety, the police is urged to take necessary action,” he said.
Yii also called on netizens to restrain themselves from making any negative comments on social media platforms as this would cause more harm than good to the spirit of harmony and neighbourliness among the various communities. — DayakDaily
