By Ling Hui
KUCHING, Nov 27: The repainting of 10 shop lots and increase of street lights at Padungan Street will be the beginning of its facelift.
Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said Padungan Street, which is 100 years old next year, deserves a makeover to become an ‘Instagrammable’ spot enriched with history.
He said the repainting project of the shop lots will begin next week and is expected to be completed before Chinese New Year in February 2022.
“We will start by communicating with the shop owners. I know it will involve some sensitive issues, but I’m sure we can discuss and reach a win-win situation.
“All the repainting and repair works will be free, and it will be a facelift for the identified shops as well,” he said, adding that the council is also adjusting the lighting along the street to ensure a safe environment for businesses operating at night.
Meanwhile, Wee said shop lots along Gambir Street will also undergo the same redecoration works under Kuching North City Commission (DBKU).
The row of shops will be repainted with the same colours as Masjid India Kuching located just across the road.
“We must preserve the antiques and tradition, but at the same time, ensure the continuation of businesses in the buildings.
“We don’t want old buildings that are without life,” he said during his Facebook live streaming session today. — DayakDaily
