KUCHING: It is vital that the local councils ensure that Kuching City has an environment that is conducive for business and living.
In saying this, Minister of Local Government and Community Development Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh noted that over the years the city was mostly shaped and guided along the needs of the people.
“We have seen the city grow from a very small city to a big city. Whatever policies or implementations taking place, we (ministry) have to be guided by the people’s aspiration and expectations,” said Wong during the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) annual dinner at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on Sunday.
As such, he reminded that the local councils have a responsibility to beautify the city and ensure its cleanliness by tidying up the streets and making sure that everything looks pleasant.
“Kuching is known as a business city and the local council must ensure that the city must be shaped to be more friendly towards the business sector,” said Wong, who is also Second Minister of Finance.
However, he acknowledged that is easier said than done as it requires perseverance, team work and a team of dedicated staff.
Citing Singapore as an example, he said the island republic managed to attain its status as a green garden city of the east since 1976 under the leadership of their late premier Lee Kuan Yew due to its landscape and cleanliness.
“When he (Lee) took charge of the city’s development, he tasked two persons to be in charge of the green landscape and cleanliness of the city each. The key to this is that both of those in charge were passionate about their jobs,” said Wong.
He said when a person feels passionate and is totally committed to their job, that would make all the difference.
“This is something that everyone in MBKS should adopt,” he advised.
Meanwhile, Wong commended mayor Dato James Chan Khay Syn, MBKS councillors and its staff for an excellent year of service.
MBKS deputy mayor Abang Afandi Abang Annuar and Federation of Kuching and Samarahan Divisions Chinese Associations chairman Temenggong Lu Kim Yong were among those attending the dinner.