KUCHING — An amusement ride malfunctioned during the Kuching Festival Fair 2025 at Dewan Masyarakat last night, resulting in minor injuries to three individuals. The incident occurred at approximately 9.40 PM, drawing swift medical response from the Malaysian Red Crescent personnel stationed at the venue.
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Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng expressed his deep concern and apologies on behalf of the council to the victims and their families. He emphasized that public safety remains MBKS’s utmost priority and assured the public that immediate action has been taken.
“As Mayor, I share the shock and sadness that many of you feel. This is not something we take lightly,” he stated in a press release. “We have instructed the ride contractor to immediately suspend operations, and we have contacted the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) to conduct a thorough reinspection of all rides.”
According to Dato Wee, all fun rides will remain closed until they are cleared and certified safe by DOSH. He also clarified that prior to the fair’s opening, MBKS required the amusement operator to obtain clearance from DOSH and provide valid public liability insurance.
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“Even with all these precautionary steps in place, this incident happened — and for that, we are truly sorry,” he added.
An official investigation is currently underway in collaboration with the relevant authorities to determine the cause of the malfunction. MBKS has pledged full cooperation and transparency throughout the process.
Ticket refunds for the Tagada and Ferris Wheel rides will be issued by the contractor from 4th to 6th August 2025, between 5.00 PM and 9.00 PM, at the amusement site’s ticket counter.
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Mayor Wee also urged the public not to spread unverified information or engage in speculation regarding the incident, appealing for calm and patience as authorities complete their investigation.
“The Kuching Festival is meant to be a celebration of family and community. We regret that this incident has cast a shadow over that, and we are fully committed to ensuring this never happens again,” he said. – MBKS
