By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Nov 14: Kuching South City Council (MBKS) will continue organising community-focused initiatives to help residents cope with the rising cost of living, particularly those who still require assistance despite the gradual recovery of the economy.
Its Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said the council had received encouraging responses to its community shopping programmes, with the Madani Mobile Rahmah Sales with MBKS being the third such initiative organised by the council.
He said the positive response reflected the continued need for affordable essential goods among residents.
“While we understand that the overall economy is gradually recovering, people still need some assistance during this period.
“These programmes provide daily necessities and other essential items that residents need, allowing them to purchase these goods at more affordable prices,” he said when visiting the Madani Mobile Rahmah Sales with MBKS at the Sungai Apong basketball court today.
He noted that residents had been orderly in queuing to purchase the goods, contributing to the smooth running of the programme.
Wee stressed that looking after residents’ welfare remained a priority for MBKS, describing the council as a bridge between the government and the community.
“We will do our best to assist residents and ensure that no one is forgotten or left out,” he said.
He added that community assistance should not be confined to specific occasions or programmes, as the council continued its efforts to reach out to residents and respond to their needs on a daily basis.
Whether residents were affected by fires, floods or difficult economic circumstances, he said, MBKS would do its utmost to provide assistance within its capabilities.
Wee also emphasised the importance of community cooperation, saying that while the council would continue improving its services, residents’ participation and support were equally important.
Reflecting on his nearly eight years in office, he said MBKS had consistently encouraged its teams to engage directly with the public and understand the challenges faced by different communities.
“Such grassroots engagement was essential in helping the council better understand residents’ living conditions and provide assistance more effectively,” he added. — DayakDaily
