KUCHING, 6 April 2025 – The Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR) has stepped forward to assist the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) in investigating the collapse of a portion of an old shop building on Jalan Padungan this morning.
In an official statement, JKR Sarawak Director Dr Cassidy Morris said a special technical team will be deployed immediately to the site. This team consists of forensic engineers, structural experts, and technical investigation officers. Their mission is to conduct a thorough inspection and provide a detailed structural assessment of the building.
“The investigation will involve a site analysis, examination of the building’s structure, and collection of physical evidence to identify the root cause of the collapse,” he explained.
Dr Cassidy added that public safety remains the department’s top priority, and all investigation findings will be forwarded to MBKS for further action. If necessary, JKR will also propose remedial steps to ensure such incidents do not recur.
JKR is also ready to offer their technical expertise and advisory services to local authorities, government agencies, and relevant bodies that require assistance in engineering or infrastructure matters.
The incident occurred early this morning, when part of the shop building’s wall gave way. According to a statement by the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM), a call was received at 6.23am regarding the collapse. The Padungan Fire and Rescue Team (BBP) responded swiftly and confirmed that a section of the wall had cracked and fallen.
Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported in the incident.
Authorities are now working together to assess the damage and determine the next course of action to ensure the area’s safety for the public and surrounding businesses.
