KUCHING (Jan 5): Illegal advertisement banners promoting personal loans have become a persistent issue in Kuching South. Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng is urging the community to actively help remove these banners, which are often misleading and potentially linked to scams.
During his weekly Facebook live session, ‘Shall WEE Talk’, Datuk Wee revealed that some of the contact numbers displayed on these banners do not directly connect to loan providers. Instead, they serve as a gateway for callers to obtain more information, raising concerns about potential fraudulent activities.
“We learned from the police that these numbers are not always direct contact links. It is best to help remove these illegal advertisement banners whenever you see them,” said Wee.
He commended local joggers who have taken the initiative to remove such banners during their morning runs. Wee hopes their actions will inspire more residents to assist in combating this issue, which not only violates city by-laws but also tarnishes the city’s image and endangers the public.
Despite continuous efforts by MBKS teams, those responsible for the banners remain undeterred. “At present, we instruct contractors and appeal to the public to take down these illegal banners when spotted,” he said.
MBKS has been working closely with the police, who assure that the situation remains under control. However, the council lacks the authority to apprehend those putting up the banners, leaving the police to handle enforcement.
Wee reiterated the importance of community involvement, stressing that removing these banners can help prevent individuals from falling victim to scams. “It is a collective effort to keep our city clean and safe,” he added.
