KUCHING (Dec 6): Residents and tourists frequenting Jalan Taman Budaya, Kuching, have raised alarms over the towering trees near the historic air raid shelter. These trees, plagued by termite infestations and shallow root systems, pose significant safety risks, said Democratic Action Party (DAP) member Michael Kong.
Kong, who serves as special aide to DAP Sarawak chairman Chong Chieng Jen, highlighted the deteriorating condition of these trees, some exceeding 100 feet in height with dense, heavy canopies. He pointed out that the trees had never undergone “pollarding,” a maintenance process involving trimming of branches to reduce canopy weight.
“Termite infestation has severely compromised their stability. Furthermore, the trees grow on a thin sandy topsoil layer, restricted by the air raid shelter’s underground concrete structures, preventing proper root anchoring,” said Kong in a statement.
Residents reported hearing cracking sounds from fallen branches in recent weeks. Kong likened the danger to past tragedies such as the Penang Peranakan Mansion tree fall and the Reservoir Park incident in January 2023, where a vehicle was crushed.
With Jalan Taman Budaya being a popular spot for locals and tourists, the risk of a fatal accident is heightened. Despite residents voicing their concerns to the Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) through councillor Sih Hua Tong, no immediate action has been taken.
“This inaction is unacceptable. DBKU must urgently address the issue by trimming the trees, addressing termite infestations, and ensuring routine inspections,” Kong stressed. He also emphasized the ecological and historical significance of preserving the trees.
Deputy Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, who oversees DBKU, acknowledged the issue and assured that measures are underway to address it.
