By Amanda L
KUCHING, Feb 8: Kuching South City Council (MBKS) has unveiled the Padungan Heritage Conservation Task Force to safeguard one of the city’s oldest and most historically significant neighbourhoods.
According to MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng, the body will oversee technical and structural assessments, identify conservation requirements, and recommend measures to ensure the safety, sustainability, and long-term preservation of heritage buildings while accommodating ongoing economic activity.
“Padungan is not merely a street or a commercial area; it is a community with a heart.
“Generations of families have built their livelihoods here, creating enduring memories and shaping the neighbourhood’s unique character,” he said during the opening of the Padungan Chinese New Year Street Festival 2026 on Saturday (Feb 7).
The launch coincided with the festival’s opening, which runs from Feb 6 to 15, transforming Padungan Street into a vibrant public space for residents and visitors.
“The festival celebrates togetherness, tradition, and community spirit, while also supporting local businesses during the festive season,” Wee added.
The Padungan Chinese New Year Street Festival has become a much-anticipated annual event, blending cultural celebration with initiatives to protect and preserve the area’s unique heritage. — DayakDaily
