By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, June 23: Petanak Market will soon have a new public toilet with disabled-friendly (OKU) facilities as Kuching South City Council (MBKS) begins upgrading an existing office space under the BP1 allocation.
The project, which commenced on June 10 and is expected to be completed by Sept 9, aims to improve accessibility and convenience for elderly hawkers and market-goers, many of whom have been operating at the market for decades.
MBKS mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng, accompanied by councillors Cr Chai Jui Loon and Cr Eric Tay Tze Kok as well as senior officers, visited the site for a handover ceremony to mark the start of construction today.
In a statement issued afterwards, Wee emphasised that while the project may be small in scale, it carries a big impact for the community, particularly the aging population and those with mobility challenges.
“This initiative is in line with MBKS’ ongoing commitment to promote inclusivity and ensure that community spaces are accessible to all.
“As we move toward becoming an age-friendly city, MBKS will continue to implement measures that benefit everyone, regardless of age or ability,” he said.
The initiative is part of the council’s strategy under the Age-Friendly Cities framework, which places importance on access, safety and dignity for senior citizens and persons with disabilities in urban development planning.
Petanak Market, one of Kuching’s busiest commercial centres, is home to a significant number of long-serving hawkers.
The addition of OKU-friendly amenities is expected to greatly enhance comfort and usability for both traders and visitors. — DayakDaily
