By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Jan 2: Kuching South City Council (MBKS) enforcement officers are now equipped with body cameras as part of its initiative to bolster public safety, operational transparency, and urban management in line with Kuching South’s transformation into a smart city.
Rolling out 10 body cameras today, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian highlighted the significance of the initiative, which complements the existing network of closed-circuit televisions (CCTVs) within MBKS’s jurisdiction.
“This upgrade is timely as it aligns with Sarawak’s digitalisation and smart city agenda to meet rising public expectations. These body cameras are not just tools to protect the public but also to safeguard frontline enforcement officers, fostering mutual trust,” he said during the launch at MBKS headquarters today.
Dr Sim stressed that the initiative signals a shift in enforcement practices, focusing on accountability and public service.
“This is about trust, confidence, and our commitment to delivering the best service to the people. It’s not merely about deploying new equipment—it’s a change in mindset towards better governance,” he added.
The body-worn cameras provide live footage streamed to a central command system, ensuring impartial records of public interactions.
“These cameras support enforcement work by providing crucial evidence in disputes and improving transparency. This ensures clarity in complex cases, eliminating confusion over who is right or wrong,” he explained.
Dr Sim, who is also Minister of Public Health, Housing, and Local Government, noted that the initiative builds on earlier efforts to install CCTVs in key areas of Kuching South.
“This measure protects everyone without infringing on privacy. It’s another step forward in Kuching’s journey to becoming a smart city,” he said.
He also revealed plans for a pilot project to integrate traffic light systems with emergency services.
“Soon, we will enable traffic lights to turn green for ambulances, improving emergency response times and reducing risks for motorists who may not hear approaching sirens,” he added.
MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng described the initiative as part of the council’s broader vision to integrate advanced technology into urban governance.
“All CCTVs in MBKS areas feed live footage into the central command system, and now, so will these body cameras. This reflects our commitment to transforming Kuching South into a smart city. But being a smart city is more than technology—it’s about using innovative tools to create a safer, more sustainable, and people-centered urban environment,” he said. —DayakDaily
