By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Oct 28: Kuchingnites are strongly encouraged to promptly settle all their outstanding scratch-and-display parking compound under the jurisdiction of the Kuching South City Council’s jurisdiction (MBKS) as the 50 per cent discount period has been extended to Dec 31, 2023.
MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng is appealing to the public to settle these fines before legal actions become necessary.
“We urge the public to cooperate and not perceive this as a threat or negatively as this issue had long burdened the council, which significantly impacted our accounts.
“If individuals persist in avoiding paying their outstanding fines, then we may have to resort to legal actions,” he said when contacted by DayakDaily today.
Wee emphasised that this special initiative, implemented in conjunction with the 60th anniversary of the Sarawak Independence celebration this year, is also aimed at reorganising and straightening out the council’s account in preparation for the forthcoming digital on-street parking payment system next year.
“During our full council meeting yesterday (Oct 28), we unanimously agreed for the discount period, which was originally to conclude on Oct 31, 2023, to be extended until the end of the year.
“This issue was discussed, and we understand that some people may be financially strained due to the pending second-half assessment fee,” he said.
Deputy Premier and Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian has also been informed and given his approval for the discount extension.
During his ShallWeeTalk online session today, Wee noted that the potential time constraints faced by the public to settle their outstanding parking fines, as the initiative was only rolled out in August.
He also stressed the importance of approaching the council to address any discrepancies or disputes that may arise.
“Any compound with issues or disputes, bring it up to the Council so we can sort it out. If there are documents to prove the case, there won’t be a problem,” he explained, noting that there are instances involving fines issued for cars purchased second-hand, which were originally attributed to the previous owner.
Regarding the digital payment system, Wee said the council is preparing to implement it by next year. — DayakDaily
