KUCHING: Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) Chairman Cr. Tan Kai has refuted claims that the 10th Mile area is in economic decline, stating that the township continues to experience steady development and commercial growth.
Responding to a statement by Stampin DAPSY Chief Soo Tien Ren, who described the area as a ‘shadow of its former self’, Tan Kai said such claims do not reflect the current reality.
He pointed to the completion of several new shop lot projects, now occupied by well-known retail chains such as Mr DIY and H&L, as indicators of the area’s growing appeal.
“We are seeing more retail, food and beverage, and service-oriented businesses opening in 10th Mile. The number of business license applications remains stable, showing that investor confidence is still strong,” he said.
He acknowledged, however, that feedback from the ground revealed broader challenges linked to national policies, particularly the expanded scope of the Sales and Services Tax (SST).
“Many local traders, NGOs, and even schools have raised concerns that the wider SST coverage is burdening them financially.
“Services like funeral arrangements, school construction projects, and even NGO donations are now taxed. This raises costs and squeezes already thin margins,” he said, recounting his recent engagements with community groups.
Tan Kai called on Stampin MP YB Chong Chieng Jen to raise these concerns in Parliament, suggesting that a suspension or review of the SST’s application in these areas would provide relief to grassroots businesses.
“If the MP is serious about supporting the local economy and helping 10th Mile recover, I challenge him to bring this up in the next Parliament sitting,” he added.
He said that MPP remains committed to supporting economic revitalisation by upgrading infrastructure, simplifying licensing processes, and organising community events to stimulate local business activities.
By Connie Chieng