By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, June 25: A significant aspect of the revitalisation of Padungan Street, a century-old thoroughfare, under a forthcoming masterplan, will involve developing pedestrian and cycling networks to enhance connectivity and walkability in exploring the historic southern city, highlighting its past and present.
Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng underscored the importance of this effort in enhancing Kuching South’s appeal as a premier tourism destination within Kuching.
“With over 100 years of history, Padungan is a treasure trove of cultural heritage waiting to be rediscovered. The urban regeneration for Greater Padungan masterplan envisions transforming this area into a historical and tourism hub, seamlessly blending old-world charm with modern amenities.
“To realise this vision, we must first reassess the existing urban fabric of Old Padungan, ensuring that any enhancements respect its historical integrity while preparing it for future developments,” he said in his speech when participating in the Positioning Sarawak as a Key Tourism Hub in Asean seminar at a hotel here today.
Wee emphasised that improving connectivity through pedestrian and cycling routes along Padungan Street and its surroundings will link key attractions, markets, and public spaces, facilitating easier navigation for both locals and tourists alike.
“By making our streets more accessible and inviting, we not only improve the quality of life for our residents but also make the area more attractive to visitors,” he said.
Furthermore, upgrading existing hawker stalls under MBKS jurisdiction is another priority, given their role as culinary hubs that celebrate Sarawak’s diverse cultural heritage and local community life.
Wee highlighted that Kuching South boasts over ten markets and hawker centres across 61.53 square kilometres, each offering a vibrant array of local gastronomy.
“We take pride in attractions such as the Malaysia-China Friendship Park, MBKS Pictorial Gallery, bustling malls, food streets, captivating murals, and lively markets. These elements collectively enrich the fabric of Kuching South,” he affirmed.
As Kuching South has been designated a Unesco City of Gastronomy, Wee pointed out that tourism policies and development objectives are integral to the city’s growth strategy.
“By leveraging our rich history, vibrant culture, and culinary excellence, combined with ongoing infrastructure improvements, we position ourselves attractively to draw more tourists. Let us continue working together to realise Kuching South’s tourism potential and ensure our city thrives as a beacon of cultural and gastronomic excellence,” he concluded.
The seminar, organised by Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Sarawak in collaboration with AirAsia and Malaysia Transport Institute (Mitrans) of UiTM Shah Alam, was graced by Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Art Sarawak Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah. — DayakDaily
