By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, July 24: Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng has addressed public concerns regarding the delay in repairing the elevator at the seven-storey KMC Flat here, highlighting the council’s commitment to following proper procedures and ensuring public safety.
Wee explained that the elevator’s malfunction was primarily due to water leakage from the building’s top floor, which damaged the elevator’s engine.
He said that the council prioritised safety and conducted a thorough assessment to understand the cause of the malfunction before proceeding with repairs.
“We need to ensure safety first. Water seeped into the engine, which is dangerous. We are working on relocating the motor and fixing the water leakage to prevent further damage,” Wee told reporters following the 2024 Kuching Festival Food Fair press conference today at the MBKS complex here.
He also highlighted the high cost of maintenance, disclosing that the annual maintenance fee for the elevator runs into several thousand ringgits.
The mayor further stressed that any repair costing over RM50,000 requires an open tender process, which takes time.
He gave assurance the council had already awarded the contract and expected the repairs to take about two months to complete.
Wee also emphasised that the council is fully aware of the issues and is working within the required procedures to ensure the work is done properly.
He called for understanding from the public, explaining that the council’s actions are guided by regulations to ensure transparency and accountability.
“We are not neglecting our responsibilities. Every step we take is for the well-being of the residents,” he said. “The council’s funds are public money, and we must use them wisely and transparently.”
The mayor also highlighted ongoing efforts to support residents, including providing alternative housing solutions for elderly or physically challenged individuals who might struggle with mobility in the absence of a functioning elevator.
Wee further touched on broader issues, encouraging a constructive approach to problem-solving rather than finger-pointing.
He reiterated the council’s dedication to addressing community needs, urging for cooperation and patience from the residents during the repair process.
Wee reaffirmed the council’s commitment to maintaining open communication with the public and addressing concerns as they arise. — DayakDaily
