MBKS upgrading open spaces to enhance quality of life

Borneo Post

3 days ago

Wee (fourth left) performs the site handing-over ceremony to the contractor for the project at Lorong Bayor Bukit 14.
KUCHING (June 18): Two open spaces — at Lorong Bayor Bukit 14 and Lorong F, Taman BDC — are undergoing landscape upgrading by the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) and the National Landscape Department.
In a statement, Kuching South mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng expressed appreciation for the funding support provided by the National Landscape Department and reaffirmed the council's commitment to improving community spaces.
'MBKS will continue to explore further improvements that strengthen community spaces, foster intergenerational interaction, and elevate the quality of life in Kuching South,' he said.
He added that the council remains committed to creating a city that prioritises the health, development, and happiness of residents across all age groups through continuous infrastructure upgrades and service enhancements.
On the upgrading at Lorong Bayor Bukit 14, Wee said it is being implemented under the Development of Living Environment Landscape initiative, and is scheduled to be completed within 16 weeks.
'The project officially commenced on June 11, and its expected completion is on Oct 1 this year.
'This initiative will see the transformation of the open space located within a residential area into a safe, welcoming recreational hub for the surrounding community.
Wee (seated in an excavator) performs the symbolic earth-breaking ceremony for the project at Lorong F, Taman BDC.
'Key upgrades include the construction of a new footpath with proper drainage, installation of a children playset, fitness equipment, gazebo, concrete table tennis table, hopscotch game, solar-powered lighting, and new trees and shrubs,' he added.
Meanwhile, Wee said the upgrading at Lorong F, Taman BDC commenced on June 9 and its expected completion date is set for Sept 29 this year.
'The works will include a new entrance pavilion and signage, upgraded walkways, modern playsets for children, outdoor fitness equipment for seniors, and the planting of new trees and shrubs — all of which aim to make the park more inviting, safe, and accessible to all users.
'This park has long served the BDC community, and it is our responsibility to ensure that it evolves to meet the growing needs of our children and elderly.'
He added that public parks and open spaces play a crucial role in fostering community interaction, healthy lifestyles, and environmental sustainability.
He also emphasised the significance of enhancing parks and open spaces in line with the council's commitment to the Child Friendly Cities Initiative (CFCI) and the promotion of an age-friendly city.
'Open spaces, such as theses ones, are vital to encourage active lifestyles, community bonding, and metal well-being, particularly among our children and elders.
'Through projects like these, MBKS is working toward creating inclusive, friendly, and safe neighbourhoods for all generation,' added Wee.