By Dayangku Hidayatul
KUCHING, Oct 1: Kuching South City Council (MBKS) has agreed to delay the implementation of new property assessments for Jalan Noakes, Sungai Apong residents until Jan 1, 2026, following concerns raised during a dialogue session today.
Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng announced the decision during a second meeting with the house owners to address issues surrounding the reassessment notices.
“The session was to continue our open discussion on the recent reassessment notice received by residents. The reassessment is part of MBKS’ routine exercise to update property assessments in line with changes such as house extensions, which increase overall floor area,” he explained at a press conference at MBKS headquarters today.
He stressed that the reassessment was a standard legal requirement to ensure fairness, noting that the assessment took into account both original and extended floor areas.
“If a single-storey that has been approved become double storey, definitely you have to pay assessment for double storey structure,” he said, adding that the rates themselves remain unchanged, with only the built-up areas being updated.
Wee assured that the new rates would only take effect from Jan 1, 2026, giving residents ample time to plan and prepare.
“I hear you and understand that it may feel like an extra burden if the rates are enforced immediately.
“They agree to the new rate because they feel that as good citizens, you have to pay what you have to pay. At the end, they expressed appreciation for our willingness to meet them face-to-face and listen to their concerns,” he said.
Residents acknowledged the necessity of the reassessment and welcomed the deferment, expressing gratitude to MBKS for its understanding, care, and commitment to work with the community.
The dialogue ended on a positive note with both sides reaffirming cooperation and mutual understanding.
“We assure all residents that the council remains open and approachable. We are always ready to listen. All my councillors are on the ground, and we will work together towards solutions that are fair and people-friendly,” Wee concluded. — DayakDaily
