KUCHING – A comprehensive Smart Parking System is scheduled to become fully operational in January 2026, marking a significant advancement in the city’s urban management capabilities. The initiative is a joint undertaking by the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) and the Kuching North City Council (DBKU).
The councils have appointed Pay & Go Sdn. Bhd. as the official solution provider and operator following a competitive selection process. Dato Wee Hong Seng, the Mayor of MBKS, stated that the company was chosen after a rigorous Request for Proposal (RFP) that evaluated its technical expertise, financial stability, and operational track record.
He described the new system as a modern, data-driven approach to parking management. It is designed to enhance the convenience for motorists, improve the efficiency of enforcement operations, and optimise revenue collection for the local authorities.
A trial phase for the technology is set to begin on *1 November 2025*. This start date coincides with the conclusion of the existing concession held by Kuching City Parking Systems Sdn. Bhd. (KCPS) on 30 October 2025. Parking rates for both seasonal and paid parking will remain unchanged throughout this testing period.
The concession agreement with Pay & Go is established for an initial term of ten years. This includes an option for a five-year extension, contingent upon satisfactory performance and mutual consent between the parties.
Dato Wee expressed optimism that the transition would significantly improve the user experience through the introduction of cashless and contactless payment methods. He also anticipated greater transparency in revenue management and more effective enforcement via real-time monitoring capabilities.
Hilmy Othman, the Mayor of DBKU, echoed this sentiment, noting that the system reflects a shared commitment to innovation and high-quality public service. He explained that the infrastructure would incorporate several advanced technological components.
These will include a dedicated mobile application utilising GPS technology, parking notices featuring QR codes for seamless transactions, and the deployment of number plate recognition (LPR) cameras. These cameras will be installed on enforcement motorcycles and vehicles to strengthen monitoring in the field.
Mayor Hilmy stated that the initiative would not only upgrade parking facilities but also establish a foundation for smarter and more sustainable urban mobility in Kuching. He highlighted benefits such as increased security, faster enforcement processes, and more efficient digital payment options for users.
The implementation is viewed as a major transformational step for the city. It aligns with the broader Sarawak Smart City initiative and the state’s digital economy ambitions, aiming to make Kuching more resident-friendly and future-ready.
The official launch ceremony for the smart parking framework was held here on Tuesday, where details of the rollout were formally disclosed to the public. The system represents one of the most substantial digital infrastructure upgrades for the city in recent years.
