Latest news with #KuchingNorthCityCommission
Borneo Post
2 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Modern Living Home Expo draws over 60,000 visitors on last day
Hilmy (second right) and Tiong (fourth right) take a group photo during the event. — Photo by Frankie Junau KUCHING (June 9): The Modern Living Home Expo attracted over 60,000 visitors on its final day yesterday. According to organising committee chairman Nicholas Tiong, the three-day event at Metrocity Convention Centre here surpassed the turnout recorded at the previous expo held earlier in February at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching. 'As of midday, we welcomed more than 60,000 visitors to the expo, exceeding the previous record of around 40,000. I am confident the number will continue to rise by this event, as many people tend to make their way to the venue during the final hours to take advantage of exclusive discounts from exhibitors,' he told reporters when met yesterday. The exhibition featured 300 booths, showcasing the offerings of 80 companies from across Kuching. These included the latest electrical appliances, home care essentials, DIY tools, and a variety of modern furniture. 'We chose Metrocity due to its strategic location and ease of access for the public, which is one of the key reasons for the significant increase in visitor numbers compared to the previous venue,' said Tiong. Meanwhile, Kuching North Datuk Bandar Dato Hilmy Othman, who visited the exhibition, expressed strong support for the organiser's initiative in hosting it. 'We truly welcome efforts such as this, as they help revitalise the local economy, especially in areas under DBKU's (Kuching North City Commission) administration,' he said, adding that DBKU would assist the organisers with any needs to facilitate similar events in the future. 'Following the post-Covid recovery, economic activities are beginning to thrive once again. We must continue to nurture economic opportunities that generate income for exhibitors and those indirectly involved in the local economic ecosystem. 'I have been informed that public response to this expo has been very encouraging, and I hope to see more such activities held here at MCCC, as they can generate greater business and employment opportunities for our community,' Hilmy said. exhibition lead Modern Living Home Expo Nicholas Tiong
Borneo Post
10-05-2025
- Borneo Post
Gone with the wind…
The columnist believes that it would be good if the citizens were given the chance to propose what to do with the Kuching Civic Centre building, or the land on which it stands. — Photo courtesy of Edgar Ong THAT 29-foot long slab of a foreign material (heavy-duty polycarbonate, according to fellow columnist, Edgar Ong of ' Just Another Point of View ' – April 12, 2025), could have landed on the roof of his house or his car. It could also have hit somebody walking in the garden. That would have been disastrous indeed. Unless and until some governmental authority proves otherwise, the 'flying intruder' must be regarded as a prime suspect as having been a piece of the iconic civic centre at Taman Budaya in Kuching. I must say that Edgar is such a responsible citizen because he has brought to the attention of the public a potential killer in the city. The authorities, generally fond of advising the public 'not to speculate' on various mysterious events, may or may not have appreciated his prompt raising of the alarm! Since the incident, many people have been waiting for the authorities to act, making known what exactly would be done to the building, and how soon. The ball is at the government's court, or of agencies such as the city council. Which one: Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) or Kuching South City Council (MBKS)? Repeat, whoever has an interest in the building should take a prompt action to assure the public that the danger posed by falling materials from the structure is eliminated altogether. It would be a great embarrassment to all concerned if another gust of wind should blow away more pieces of the roof of the tower. In the event of a lawsuit, the name of the well-known architect and that of the builder of the centre could be dragged in. The owner/custodian, owing a duty of care to the public at large, may well be liable for any injury to person or damage to property. Breach of that duty would be a tort of negligence. While waiting for the bureaucratic machinery to grind at its own pace, let's pray that no strong wind will blow in the direction of Taman Budaya for the time being. Praying may not be enough – some concrete action would be better. We'd like to see men fixing the lifts, men on the roof to inspect the extent of structural damage, and to see what needs replacement or what needs to be retained. Just some tangible sign signifying something is being done. Various groups of people have expressed their interest in the future of the Kuching Civic Centre. It is good that everybody recognises the importance of some useful facility, instead of letting the structure rot away. During its heyday, the planetarium attracted a lot of interest amongst school-children and other members of the public. They came to see the stars at close range, while listening to the late Mr Jacob Sebastian explaining the mysteries of the sky. A pity that no one as competent and knowledgeable as Mr Sebastian took over the job when he was unable to continue manning the planetarium. I went once to his talk and learned something about the constellation of stars before immersing myself in the old newspapers, which were being stored somewhere downstairs. I hope these newspapers had been microfilmed and were being kept in the National Archive as part of the national heritage. The last time that I was at the civic centre was when I went to pay my last respects to the late Awang Raweng, holder of the George Cross. The hero was lying in state in the main hall of the centre before he was interred at the Heroes Monument across the road. I think the hall is still good for many purposes. During its heyday, the place was a popular venue for cultural shows and other gatherings. This was before the completion of the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK). The organisers of large-scale gatherings began to shift venues, leaving the civic centre in the lurch. I remember organising a singing competition in the Iban language there. It was a roaring success. Sometimes one tends to associate success with the venue where it was held. Up in the tower, there were good restaurants. Those who had been there would wish to go back with friends. I invited a friend from Singapore to show off what Kuching could offer by way of a panoramic view of the city – city in the forest, and a forest in the city. A few years later, when I wanted to take a friend from New Zealand for a bowl of laksa up there, it was a great let-down: the lifts were not working! The Kiwi went home without a story to tell. I think it would be good if the citizens were given the chance to propose what to do with that building or the land. I would suggest that the land on which it stands be alienated to the Sarawak Initiatives, a group that provides training facilities to groom up young Sarawakians who aspire to be the future leaders. They need a venue with facilities for the study of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 and related documents, for the studying of local customs and mores, the law of the constitution, and current world affairs affecting the country. I hope this organisation would bid for alienation of the land and undertake to use it for some useful purpose in terms of quality education for the young Sarawakians. If the government decides to pull the structure down, there must be other organisations that would like to acquire the property and develop it for some good purpose. Alienate the land to a deserving local organisation. * The opinions expressed in this article are the columnist's own and do not reflect the view of the newspaper. city councils Civic Centre maintenance roofing
Borneo Post
27-04-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
‘Ibu Pertiwi flag-raising a reminder of S'wak's sovereignty'
The dignitaries and other attendees, all donning Raya outfits, gather for a group photo at the Ibu Pertiwi site in Petra Jaya. – Ukas photo KUCHING (April 27): The monthly raising of the Sarawak flag, 'Ibu Pertiwi', is a celebration of the state's sovereignty and unity. The ceremony, usually held on the first Sunday of every month, aims to nurture patriotism and a sense of belonging among locals. This month's flag-raising ceremony, however, was quite unique as it coincided with the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration, and participants were seen donning traditional Malay costumes during the event. The event kicked off with an inspection of the guard-of-honour from the Kuching North City Commission (DBKU), followed by the singing of the Sarawak anthem, 'Ibu Pertiwiku'. It continued with a performance by the music group 'Prodigy', said Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) in a report shared on its Facebook page. Minister of Utility and Telecommunications Sarawak Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi officiated at the ceremony today. Meanwhile, Minister in Sarawak Premier's Department Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai is expected to officiate at the flag-raising ceremony next month. Among those present yesterday were Deputy Minister of Energy and Environmental Sustainability Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni, Kuching North Datuk Bandar Dato Hilmy Othman, Sarawak Multimedia Authority general manager Dato Dr Anderson Tiong Ing Heng, Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation chief executive officer Dato Sudartono Osman, and DBKU director Ramzi Abdillah. flag raising ibu pertiwi flag julaihi narawi Kuching North City Commission
Borneo Post
22-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
DBKU to host vibrant 2025 Kuching City Day celebration on Aug 1
Hilmy (sixth from the left) and Abang Johari (fifth eright) singing a song, joined by other distinguished guests at the event. – Photo by Sarawak Public Communications Unit KUCHING (April 22): The Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) will organise and host the 2025 Kuching City Day celebration on Aug 1, said Kuching North Datuk Bandar Dato Hilmy Othman. Hilmy noted that this year's celebration carries special significance as it aligns with many ongoing changes and transformations in the city. 'Kuching is stepping confidently into a brighter future — not just physically, but also by strengthening unity and community spirit among its residents,' he said at the DBKU Ramah Tamah Aidilfitri event held at its compound at Bukit Siol here last night. The event was graced by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. Hilmy said a key highlight of the celebration would be the street parade themed 'Parade of Lights', which will feature participants from all walks of life, including LED-lit electric vehicles (cars and motorcycles), bicycles, and walking contingents from schools, government agencies, and non-governmental organisations — all forming a vibrant, dazzling procession, with the hope that the brilliance of these lights will illuminate Kuching's future success. Other notable events planned for the celebration include a music festival, the Kuching Lights and Floral Festival, and the popular Kuching International Cat Festival, he added. Hilmy also highlighted the DBKU complex's strategic location, emphasising that, perched atop Bukit Siol, it stands as the highest administrative building—not only in height but symbolically—among all government agencies. 'From its peak on Bukit Siol, we enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree view, encompassing Mount Santubong to the north, the Demak industrial area and BCCK (Borneo Convention Centre Kuching) to the east, the residential zones of Metrocity toward Matang in the west, and the twinkling lights and illuminated buildings of the Central Business District to the south—all visible from this very hilltop. 'This demonstrates DBKU complex's strategic position as an administrative centre and a proud symbol of our city.' He encouraged DBKU staff to embrace their 'elevated environment' and to demonstrate their commitment as 'selected civil servants' by always looking ahead, moving forward, and driving excellence for the well-being of people of Kuching and the advancement of Kuching as a City of Unity. Hilmy stated that as part of the city's transformation plan for infrastructure, environment, and aesthetics, several key projects are progressing: the Bintangor Bridge is expected to be completed this April; the Autonomous Rail Transit (ART) system under the Greater Kuching Public Transport Master Plan is underway in Kuching North; the Sejingkat-to-Tanjong Bako Bridge is under construction; and the Coastal Road connecting Bako to Buntal is being built. He also highlighted other significant development plans, including those in Santubong by the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) featuring hotels, Marina Bay, and a new golf course, as well as the Waterfront development project from the Bintangor bridge to the Satok bridge, which is expected to be the longest waterfront in the country 'With these projects, we will not only beautify Kuching City but also improve the quality of life and attract more tourists to our state,' he affirmed. Hilmy emphasised the importance of organisational restructuring for DBKU to effectively drive the city's transformation. 'Therefore, to ensure the success of DBKU's transformation efforts and the realisation of initiatives aimed at achieving a sustainable and competitive city through the Smart City approach under the Sarawak Smart City Master Plan, I sincerely hope to receive support and consideration for the approval of DBKU's Organisational Restructuring Proposal as soon as possible. 'This will enable DBKU to act swiftly in meeting the necessary demands to further drive our transformation journey,' he said.
Borneo Post
22-04-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Abg Jo: Kuching to be more vibrant with comprehensive infrastructure transformation
Abang Johari (fourth right) lights up the DBKU building in Bukit Siol during the event. – Photo by Churchill Edward KUCHING (April 22): Kuching will be more vibrant within the next few years with comprehensive infrastructure transformation and modern waste management system projects, said Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. The Premier said various development projects are being implemented and will be implemented through comprehensive planning, including the latest transport technology and restructuring the city's management system. 'We are upgrading the infrastructure as explained by the (Kuching North) Datuk Bandar (Datuk Hilmy Othman), including roads and modern public transport systems such as ART (Autonomous Rapid Transit). All of this requires careful planning and comprehensive implementation,' he said at the Kuching North City Commission's (DBKU) Ramah Tamah Aidilfitri 2025 last night. 'The mayors, elected representatives, and community are to work together to ensure that Kuching remains vibrant, modernised, and having a multicultural society with people living in peace and harmony.' He cited several major projects currently underway, such as the development of an underpass near the Darul Hana mosque at Jalan Tun Salahuddin; the upgrading of the road to a dual carriageway from the roundabout near the Yayasan Sarawak Complex to the Damai resort area; and the construction of dedicated ART lanes to Damai, which has been approved and will begin this year. In addition, he said a new bridge will be constructed across Sungai Santubong to connect the Damai, Buntal, and Bako areas, which is expected to open new housing areas and promote local economic growth. 'In (Demak Laut assemblyman) Datuk Hazland (Abang) Hipni's area, we are building a bridge in Sejingkat that will connect Kampung Beliong, in addition to upgrading the surrounding infrastructure,' he said, explaining that it would involve connecting Tanjong Embang, where the new international airport will be built. In the context of solid waste management, he said the state government has decided to use modern incinerator technology, as part of the 'waste to energy' approach that will cover two main zones – the Southern Zone from Kuching to Betong and the Northern Zone from Sibu to Miri. 'This is a big investment, but it is important for the sustainability of our city. (Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment) Datuk Len Talif Salleh will lead the implementation of this project,' Abang Johari said. In Satok, his former constituency, Abang Johari said the unique Bintangor Bridge will improve the landscape of Kampung Masjid and Jalan Haji Taha, while the development of the Kuching Waterfront extension from the Bintangor Bridge to Satok Bridge has the potential to become the longest waterfront in the country. On plans to revive the Old Kuching Smart Heritage (OKSHE) initiative, he said it will strengthen the preservation of historical areas and cultural heritage in Kuching. He said the focus will be the restoration of Rumah Batu in the Kuching Division Mosque area. 'Recently, I was invited by the heirs of Rumah Batu (residence of Datu Bandar Abang Muhammad Kassim Datu Bandar Abang Bolhassan), who expressed their intention to hand over the building to a waqaf trust. 'If this becomes a reality, God willing, we will be able to further beautify the area around the Divisional Mosque,' he said. He added the redevelopment of the area would also complement the development project in Padang Pasir, which will be the main location of the ART station in future. Among those present were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian; Minister of Women, Family and Community Development Dato Sri Nancy Shukri; Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah; Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah; State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki; and Deputy Minister in the Premier's Department (Project Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, Kuching North City Commission, and Islamic Affairs) Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi. abang johari ART DBKU lead Old Kuching Smart Heritage
