MBKS mayor: Council only cuts down trees which pose danger to public, property

Wee (centre) speaking at a press conference on second 'Cheongsam Cultural Festival: Love of Cheongsam, Beauty of the East' at MBKS headquarters on Oct 11, 2023.

by Wilfred Pilo

KUCHING, Oct 11: Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng has addressed concerns about tree cutting in the city, emphasising that MBKS doesn’t cut down trees unless they pose a danger to the public or property.

He explained that it’s often impossible for people to see the inside of a tree trunk, which can become weak and easily break, especially during the rainy season or strong winds.


“As the rainy season approaches, the council will send a consultant to check those trees in the city under our jurisdiction that may not be able to withstand strong winds,” he explained when asked to comment on recent tree cutting activities by MBKS along Jalan Padungam which was posted on social media.

“Unless necessary, we do not cut down trees as we would usually trim them.

“That tree we cut down could easily fall by pushing the tree trunk.

“Since I have held office as mayor of MBKS, I have never encouraged cutting down trees,” he added.

Wee also mentioned a tree on Jalan Kwong Lee Bank that MBKS is considering preserving while finding a solution to accommodate a new road in the area.

He assured the public that MBKS doesn’t cut trees without reason, and they only do so when trees pose a danger. Wee cited past incidents where trees fell along Jalan Padungan, leading the council to act when such situations arise.

In summary, the mayor emphasised that tree cutting is carried out with public safety and the environment in mind, and MBKS does its best to maintain the city’s greenery while ensuring the safety of its residents. — DayakDaily