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By Karen Bong
KUCHING, July 1: Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng has challenged critics to report any instances of corruption in the bidding and selection process for the upcoming Kuching Food Festival (KFF) 2023 to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), instead of making assumptions based on hearsays just to create news, twist facts, and mislead the public.
Although he did not specify the target of his remarks, Pending assemblywoman Violet Yong had recently questioned the exorbitant rental fees ranging from RM220,000 to RM380,000 for stalls selling drinks, on a private company managing the trade fair and urged MBKS to promptly refund the deposit payments to all unsuccessful applicants through her social media posts.
There were also grievances on social media where many entrepreneurs vented their frustrations about not being allocated a stall at the festival. This year, 809 applicants were competing for 310 stall spaces at the KFF.
“Don’t make assumptions based on rumours, speculations, or inaccurate information just to create news, twist the fact, and lead the public along.
“Come forward to state the exact areas of concern or unfairness, inform me, and we will also take action to file reports with the relevant authorities,” Wee said during his ShallWeeTalk engagement session with the community today.
He stressed that the bidding and selection process for all applications went through a transparent procedure, including for the trade fair, which was tendered out over 30 years of the festival, allowing anyone to participate regardless of political affiliation unless the applicant lacks proper documentation, is bankrupt, or has been blacklisted.
“If it was given to the lowest bidder, wouldn’t they report it to MACC? So teach me how to do it (if it is not the highest bidder to secure the spot). Moreover, members of the press were present to witness the entire tender and draw process.
“If anyone suspects any element of corruption, go report to MACC,” he said.
Wee also urged everyone not to dwell on this issue as doing so would only breed unnecessary doubt and animosity among the people.
He believed it was inappropriate to fuel arguments and divisions among the public for personal agendas, emphasising that elected representatives and political leaders should strive to unite people rather than create discord.
Questioning the potential negative impact of unwarranted criticisms on the festival, he emphasised that such actions would not benefit the public.
“Kuching is the first Malaysian city to be recognised as a Unesco Creative City of Gastronomy. As Sarawakians, we should work together to protect this esteemed recognition, which was earned through significant effort and will be assessed in five years.
“The has come a long way 30 years ago and evolved into one of Sarawak’s most popular festivals that attract people of all walks of life,” he said.
Wee added that he is not seeking praise but expressed his clear conscience regarding his efforts and initiatives for the city.
“We will accept any constructive criticisms or views that will bring improvement and elevate the best festival in Kuching city to new heights. I am not trying to defend or counter criticisms, but the public must know the truth.
“Enough is enough. A mayor does not serve YBs (elected representatives) or rich people but the entire community. Let’s do our work for the betterment of the people, society and Sarawak,” he added. — DayakDaily
