KUCHING, 27 Aug – The Kuching South City Council (MBKS) has reaffirmed its firm stance in tackling illegal moneylender advertisements, stressing that enforcement is carried out daily as part of its Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), not merely in response to public criticism.
Mayor of Kuching South, Dato Wee Hong Seng, issued a statement following remarks by Mr. Michael Kong, who recently questioned the effectiveness of local councils in addressing the matter. Dato Wee described such accusations as “unfair and misleading,” pointing out that both MBKS and the Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) have been consistent in their enforcement duties.
According to him, MBKS enforcement officers have been actively removing posters and stickers linked to illegal moneylenders across Kuching South. To support this, photographs taken on 21 August—prior to Mr. Kong’s statement—were released, showing officers in action.
“These operations are not occasional or reactionary. They are part of our daily duties. Our work has been ongoing, consistent, and proactive,” Dato Wee said.
He also reminded the public that under the Local Authorities (Advertisements) By-Laws, 2012, displaying illegal advertisements is an offence. Offenders face fines of up to RM5,000 or imprisonment of up to six months. For continuing offences, an additional fine of RM200 per day can be imposed.
Dato Wee further emphasised that the fight against illegal moneylending syndicates cannot rest solely on local councils. “These operators are organised, mobile, and often act beyond council boundaries. Effective eradication requires joint action from the police, local councils, and other enforcement agencies,” he said.
He added that it is counterproductive to portray MBKS or MPP as “inactive” when their enforcement teams have been quietly carrying out their work daily. Instead, he urged all parties, including elected representatives, to collaborate in good faith for the safety and wellbeing of Kuching residents.
“MBKS remains committed to safeguarding public spaces and protecting our community from the harm of illegal moneylending. We welcome cooperation from all quarters because this issue is best solved when everyone works together,” Dato Wee concluded.