KUCHING – The Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) has taken a significant stride towards realising its vision of a sustainable urban environment with the launch of the Bamboo Gallery and Park project.
Coinciding with the 38th Kuching City Day celebrations on 1 August 2026, the initiative was marked by a symbolic planting ceremony, underscoring the local authority’s dedication to environmental stewardship and the promotion of a green economy.
The event was officiated by Yang Berbahagia Dato Haji Hilmy bin Haji Othman, the Datuk Bandar of Kuching North. His participation highlighted the strategic importance of integrating natural elements into urban planning.
The project is being executed in collaboration with the Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (PUSAKA), leveraging their expertise in sustainable timber and non-timber forest products to ensure the successful cultivation and management of the site.
Bamboo was selected as the central feature of this development due to its unique ecological benefits. As a rapidly renewable resource, it plays a crucial role in carbon sequestration and soil stabilisation.
Furthermore, its versatility supports various economic applications, aligning with the state’s broader goals of fostering a bio-economy. By showcasing bamboo, DBKU aims to educate the public on the potential of native flora in supporting both environmental health and economic growth.
The development is structured into two distinct phases to ensure systematic progress and functional completeness. Phase 1 focuses on the creation of the Bamboo Park, designed primarily as a recreational hub for residents.
This stage includes the establishment of a diverse collection area featuring multiple bamboo species. To enhance user experience, the park will be equipped with essential amenities such as parking facilities, a children’s playground, outdoor exercise stations, and comfortable garden furniture.
These features are intended to encourage community engagement and promote active lifestyles in a serene natural setting.
Phase 2 will expand the site’s functionality through the construction of the Bamboo Gallery and additional supporting infrastructure. This phase aims to transform the location into a comprehensive centre for conservation, education, and research.
Planned additions include paved footpaths, open activity spaces for events, plant nurseries, and expanded parking lots. The gallery itself will serve as an educational platform, offering insights into the botanical characteristics of bamboo and its significance to Sarawak’s biodiversity.
To kickstart the project, a total of 700 bamboo seedlings were supplied as the initial stock for the park. Thus far, 92 clumps representing five different species have been successfully planted at the site.
This careful selection ensures a varied landscape that can withstand local climatic conditions while providing visual interest throughout the year. The gradual introduction of these species allows for monitoring and adaptation, ensuring the long-term viability of the garden.
Upon completion, the Bamboo Gallery and Park is expected to become a prominent green landmark in Kuching. It will not only enrich the city’s aesthetic appeal but also serve as a reference point for bamboo biodiversity in Sarawak.
The project aligns with DBKU’s aspiration to create a city that is sustainable, inclusive, and resilient for future generations. By providing accessible green spaces, the city hall aims to improve the quality of life for residents while preserving natural heritage.
Also present at the ceremony were His Grace Datu Haji Zainal Abidin bin Haji Abdullah, the General Manager of PUSAKA, members of the DBKU Board, and Mr. Ramzi bin Abdillah, the Director of DBKU.
Their attendance reflected the multi-agency support required to deliver such impactful community projects. The collaboration between the city hall and PUSAKA demonstrates a unified approach to leveraging local resources for urban development.
This initiative is part of a wider strategy to increase green cover in Kuching. As urbanisation continues, the preservation and creation of natural spaces become increasingly vital for maintaining ecological balance.
The Bamboo Gallery and Park stands as a testament to the possibility of harmonious coexistence between urban development and nature. It offers a model for other municipalities looking to integrate sustainability into their city planning frameworks.
