KUCHING: Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) first announced the Council announced the formation of Standing Committee — the Smart and Sustainable City Standing Committee which will be chaired by Cr. Ir. Dr. Jackie Sim Hui Hui.
In their first Full Council meeting today, following the swearing-in of councillors for the new term on 11 April 2025, Tan Kai said the committee will be responsible for setting strategic directions and overseeing key initiatives such as the Green City Action Plan (GCAP) and the Smart City Early Adopter programme.
He also took the opportunity to welcome the Council’s new Acting Municipal Secretary, Ir. Ts. Goh Thiam Ho, who will lead the administrative team of the Council.
Addressing recent allegations made by Michael Kong regarding construction activities on Sundays, Cr. Tan clarified that the Sarawak Building Ordinance does not contain any provision regulating construction working hours.
He explained that, unlike other agencies such as the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) or the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH), MPP does not enforce specific guidelines to restrict construction on weekends.
However, he emphasized that the Council will act if any activity causes public nuisance.
In this specific case, MPP has engaged with the developer involved, who has since agreed not to carry out construction work on Sundays and Public Holidays.
Cr. Tan also responded to another allegation by Michael Kong concerning the condition of the road at 3rd Mile Market following water pipe repair works.
He referred to Section 5(2) of the State Roads Ordinance, which states that any utility company or individual responsible for damaging a road must also bear responsibility for its reinstatement.
He added that MPP has already referred the matter to the relevant utility company, which is required to carry out repair works within the timeframe set. MPP will continue to monitor the situation to ensure compliance.
He further stressed that public awareness is crucial, and members of the public should understand that utility companies are accountable for such repairs.
Should they fail to act, the Council will step in according to the guidelines established by the Ministry of Public Health, Housing and Local Government (MPHLG).
In his closing remarks, he urged all parties to make fair and informed comments based on a clear understanding of the Council’s responsibilities and the existing legal framework, rather than placing premature blame on the Council.
By Connie Chieng