By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Dec 13: It is illegal and improper to use the official name or logo of Kuching South City Council (MBKS) for advertising or promotional purposes without prior approval or consent from the council.
Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said MBKS is an official government authority and its name, logo and identity must not be used in any form of commercial promotion, marketing or self-related activities, as such misuse can mislead the public and create a false impression of council endorsement.
He revealed that the council has recently detected cases involving private businesses, including property consultants, using terms such as “MBKS agent Kuching” in their promotions, giving the impression that MBKS is directly involved in or endorsing private development projects.
“This is wrong and unacceptable. Even if a private development is located close to an MBKS building, that does not give anyone the right to use the MBKS name for advertising,” he said, adding that the council is actively monitoring such practices.
Giving this warning during his ShallWeeTalk live session with the community today, Wee explained that unauthorised use of the MBKS name or logo not only violates regulations but also risks causing confusion among the public, while undermining the integrity and credibility of the council as a government body.
“To be clear, MBKS does not allow its official name, logo or identity to be used for commercial promotions unless explicit approval has been granted,” he said.
He urged all businesses, organisations, agents and individuals to exercise responsibility and respect the council’s official status, noting that misuse of MBKS branding is illegal.
For events or initiatives that are genuinely co-organised with MBKS, or where the council is involved as a partner, Wee said organisers must first seek the council’s approval before referring to MBKS in publicity materials or using its logo.
“If there is no approval, we will not only issue warnings. The council will take appropriate action against any misuse in the future,” he cautioned.
Wee said the reminder was issued to ensure transparency, protect public trust and prevent any misleading associations between MBKS and private commercial activities.— DayakDaily
