KUCHING – The Kuching South City Council (MBKS) has been selected by the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) to spearhead the Program Kempen Kesihatan Persekitaran KPKT 2026, with a strong emphasis on food premises’ cleanliness.
The campaign, running from May to July 2026, is centred at the Song Kheng Hai Hawker Centre, one of Kuching’s busiest food hubs.
The initiative aims to safeguard public health, reduce risks of food-borne illnesses, and enhance Kuching’s reputation as a leading tourist destination.
MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng expressed gratitude for the ministry’s support, noting that the financial assistance and trust placed in the council reflect confidence in Kuching South’s commitment to maintaining high standards of hygiene.
He emphasised that the campaign is not only about improving facilities but also about instilling a culture of responsibility among hawkers, traders, and the wider community.
As part of the programme, MBKS is upgrading and maintaining facilities at Song Kheng Hai to ensure they meet modern cleanliness standards.
In addition, the council is working closely with the Ministry of Health to provide training sessions for councillors, staff, and licence holders.
These sessions focus on best practices in food hygiene, equipping stakeholders with the knowledge to maintain safe and sanitary environments.
The campaign highlights the importance of shared responsibility in creating a clean city. MBKS has urged hawkers and traders to take ownership of their surroundings, stressing that cooperation from all parties is vital to achieving long-term success.
“A clean city is a shared responsibility,” Mayor Wee remarked, calling on the community to actively participate in the effort.
Food safety has become an increasingly important issue in Malaysia, with authorities nationwide stepping up measures to prevent contamination and improve public confidence in local food outlets.
Kuching South’s initiative aligns with broader national strategies to elevate hygiene standards and promote healthier urban living.
The Song Kheng Hai Hawker Centre, known for its diverse culinary offerings, attracts both locals and tourists. By focusing on this location, MBKS aims to set an example for other food premises across the city.
The campaign is expected to deliver lasting benefits, including improved public health outcomes and a stronger image for Kuching as a clean and vibrant destination.
The programme also reflects Sarawak’s wider vision of sustainable urban development, where health, safety, and environmental standards are prioritised.
With the combined efforts of government agencies, local authorities, and the community, Kuching South hopes to build momentum towards a cleaner and healthier city.
