Big cash prizes await top entries of MPKS' public toilet competition
KOTA SAMARAHAN (July 28): The Kota Samarahan Municipal Council (MPKS) is offering attractive cash prizes for its 'Clean, Attractive and Fragrant Public Toilet Competition 2025' in a bid to elevate the sanitation standards in areas under its jurisdiction.
Speaking during the official announcement of 'Tandas Bersih, Menawan & Wangi (BMW) 2025' today, MPKS chairman Abang Ismawi Abang Ali said the cleanliness of public toilets reflected not only community hygiene, but also the overall well-being and civic image of its residents.
'At MPKS, we take cleanliness seriously, especially in public premises including the toilets.
'Dirty, unsafe or uncomfortable facilities affect public perception of how hygiene is maintained in general,' he said during the press conference on the programme.
The competition seeks to encourage the adoption of systematic and high-quality toilet maintenance practices, as well as foster a lasting culture of cleanliness among the people of Samarahan.
Six categories will be contested under MPKS' jurisdiction: primary and secondary schools; food premises; places of worship; petrol stations; shopping centres; and hotels.
Each category offers RM3,000 for first place, RM2,000 for second, RM1,000 for third, and RM700 as consolation each for those placing fourth to 10th.
Assessments will be taking place from early August to early September, with the toilets judged based on the 'BMW' criteria: cleanliness, attractiveness, and fragrance.
'We hope all premises involved would give full cooperation throughout the evaluation process,' said Abang Ismawi, expressing optimism that continued commitment could position Kota Samarahan as a model city for safety, health and cleanliness.
Also present at the press conference were MPKS deputy chairman Daily Joseph; secretary Gustian Durani; infrastructure, building control and landscaping committee chairman Datuk Sim Kiang Chiok; and market and hawker committee chairman Aziz Mohamad.
On another matter, Abang Ismawi said property owners, business operators and developers must adhere to the provisions outlined in the Sarawak Building Ordinance 1999 and obtain prior approval from the State Planning Authority before commencing any construction work.
He emphasised that MPKS would continue enforcing strict surveillance of illegal building activities through ongoing inspections by enforcement personnel and public complaints.
'As of July, MPKS has recorded a total of 28 cases and we hope to see a decline in future complaints, as each report is treated with utmost seriousness.
'Together, we can transform Kota Samarahan into a smart city for a greater future,' he said.
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