By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Sept 27: Kuching South City Council (MBKS) is keen to explore the possibility of establishing a campsite within urban areas such as recreational parks under its jurisdiction, to allow residents to enjoy nature and healing experiences without leaving the city.
During his ShallWeeTalk live session today from the Cheonwangsan Family Camping Ground in Seoul, South Korea, developed as a forest-park campsite since 2020, MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng invited suggestions on which local recreational park could be suitable for such an initiative.
“Earlier, when we came here, we visited one of their smart parks. Besides organic farming for vegetables, they’ve started using this park to run camping. They have about 34 camping plots, and you can already see young people pitching tents, families eating together. It’s wonderful,” he said.
Wee noted that such facilities give urban communities the chance to connect with nature, something many city residents rarely experience.
“This is especially valuable because families can bring their children to enjoy the green environment. The South Korean government believes that if a city can provide young people with a campsite, it will be very meaningful,” he said.
He also highlighted the smart and practical infrastructure seen in Seoul, such as covered drains that automatically roll shut during rainfall to prevent blockages, as well as the integration of forest-like green zones in the heart of the city to balance development with conservation.
“The smart park we visited actually started as an organic farming project for students and teachers, later grew into a library space, and has now become a multi-level community hub for recreation, learning, and family bonding. It is affordable, reasonable, and promotes healthy living,” he added.
Wee suggested that with proper infrastructure, especially toilets and basic facilities, Kuching could also pilot similar campsites in larger urban parks.
He stressed the need for collaboration between NGOs, the private sector, and the government to make such projects sustainable.
“So, I encourage everyone to think about which parks might be suitable for such campsites. Let’s start small and build something meaningful,” he said, describing parks as the “green lungs” of the city that serve not only environmental purposes but also community well-being.
Wee also reiterated his call for residents to use MBKS’ online platforms to share opinions, concerns, and suggestions on city development.
“This is a space for us to talk as friends, share ideas, and build a better future together,” he said.
Emphasising the importance of international exchange, Wee said that city leaders must continuously learn and adapt from best practices abroad through sister-city programmes, student and professional exchanges, and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
“Going abroad is not just about sightseeing, it’s about learning what others are doing and seeing how we can apply it back home. Our focus should be on continuously learning and adapting,” he said.
The Cheonwangsan Family Camping Ground, located in Seoul’s forested mountain area, covers 27,550 square metres and features 34 camping decks, including auto and general sites. It offers comprehensive facilities such as parking, shower rooms, restrooms, dishwashing areas, rental gear, and landscaped greenery with over 16,000 trees. — DayakDaily
