KUCHING: The Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) is stepping up efforts to address the increasing number of abandoned vehicles in its jurisdiction.
Chairman of MPP Tan Kai said the council has received numerous complaints about cars left unattended for long periods in residential areas, roadside verges, and even public car parks.
He stressed that such abandoned vehicles not only take up valuable space but also pose safety and environmental concerns.
“Our enforcement division will investigate every report. Once an abandoned car is identified, a 14-day notice will be issued by sticking it on the windscreen, asking the owner to remove the vehicle. If the vehicle is not removed within that period, the council will step in to tow it away,” he said.
According to Tan Kai, the vehicles are then sent to a designated junkyard where they will be processed and eventually put up for auction.
“On average, we remove at least five abandoned cars every month from the MPP area. This number shows the problem is not small, and we need the cooperation of the public,” he added.
Tan Kai reminded vehicle owners not to simply dump unwanted cars in public parking spaces or by the roadside, pointing out that such irresponsible behaviour inconveniences other road users and reflects poorly on the community.
“The council cannot be clearing vehicles endlessly. We need vehicle owners to take responsibility.
“If you no longer want your car, dispose of it properly through legal channels instead of treating public areas as dumping grounds,” he urged.
He reiterated that MPP is committed to keeping its areas clean and orderly, and assured residents that complaints regarding abandoned cars will continue to be acted upon promptly.
By Connie Chieng