By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Jan 21: Despite being the largest of the 26 local councils in Sarawak, Kuching South City Council (MBKS) has not increased assessment rates since the 1970s, unlike other local governments in Malaysia that have adjusted their rates to meet growing operational costs.
Sarawak Deputy Premier and Minister of Public Health, Housing, and Local Government (MPHLG) Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian noted that this policy has placed additional financial pressure on MBKS, as operational costs like salaries, bonuses, and rubbish collection fees have risen significantly.
“If you look at Perak, Selangor, and other states, they have all increased (assessment rates), but Sarawak still has not increased theirs since the 1970s.
“Even Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) Mayor Dato’ Seri Maimunah Mohd Sharif has said that the local councils need to lift the assessment rates already,” he told reporters after officiating the light-switching ceremony at Malaysia-China Friendship Park, or Taman Sahabat, here today.
To address these challenges, he called on local representatives to assist with funding initiatives such as festive decorations.
Dr. Sim also highlighted the importance of modern council facilities, explaining that buildings like MBKS are more than just administrative centres—they serve as community hubs with public amenities such as gardens, amphitheatres, and auditoriums.
“In contrast, if you visit other council buildings, such as Padawan Municipal Council (MPP), there are no gardens, and the main reason people go there is simply to pay their bills—‘bayar dan bayar sahaja’ (pay and pay only).
“This is why councils like Kota Samarahan Municipal Council (MPKS), Sibu Rural District Council (SRDC), and others are constructing new council buildings, following in the footsteps of MBKS.
“These are not just administrative centres but landmarks where residents can also enjoy various facilities,” he added.
Earlier, Dr. Sim officiated the light-switching ceremony at Mayor Song Swee Guan Park in Tabuan Jaya.
Meanwhile, MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said the council has expanded lighting to more parks and public spaces this year to allow people to enjoy them not just during the day but also at night.
Among the ongoing projects, Hui Sing Park’s upgrading project is set to be completed this year.
“Additionally, two other parks, one hinted to be in BDC, will also undergo upgrades, with consultants being appointed to oversee the projects,” he said. – DayakDaily
