PADAWAN – The Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) has reinforced its commitment to public safety and environmental care by continuing routine tree trimming and maintenance across major roads and public spaces.
The council’s landscaping division has been actively monitoring tree conditions, with works prioritised based on inspection reports and site assessments. This approach ensures that areas most at risk are addressed promptly, particularly during periods of unpredictable weather.
From January to July last year, MPP teams and appointed contractors carried out extensive trimming and removal works. According to Councillor Tan Kai, who chairs the council, 124 trees were cut down by MPP staff, while contractors removed an average of 204 trees each month.
In addition, 161 trees were trimmed by council workers, with contractors handling 944 more during the same period. These figures highlight the scale of operations required to safeguard communities in Padawan.
The council’s proactive measures follow incidents of heavy rain and strong winds that caused several trees to topple in residential and roadside areas. Inspections were conducted to evaluate the quality of maintenance and to prevent further risks to motorists and pedestrians.
Beyond safety, the initiative reflects MPP’s broader environmental responsibility. The council has also been involved in recycling campaigns, collecting thousands of kilograms of recyclables, e-waste, and used cooking oil from residents. These programmes complement tree maintenance efforts by promoting sustainable practices across the municipality.
Sarawak’s wider environmental agenda has also influenced local councils. The state government has introduced policies aimed at sustainable urban development, encouraging councils such as MPP to integrate green initiatives into their daily operations.
This includes collaboration with professional bodies like the Institute of Landscape Architects Malaysia (ILAM), which works with local authorities to strengthen sustainable landscaping practices.
The council’s jurisdiction covers a vast area, including Batu Kitang, Kota Sentosa, and Kota Padawan, making the task of maintaining roadside greenery a significant undertaking.
Despite these challenges, MPP has pledged to continue its routine inspections and maintenance schedules to ensure both safety and environmental care remain top priorities.
“Let’s work together for a cleaner, greener Padawan,” the council stated, reinforcing its call for community cooperation in maintaining the municipality’s landscape.
With Sarawak positioning itself as a leader in sustainable development, initiatives such as MPP’s tree maintenance programme demonstrate how local councils are contributing to the state’s vision of resilient and eco-friendly urban growth.
