On the third day of Lunar New Year (CNY), Dato Wee Hong Seng, Mayor of Majlis Bandaraya Kuching Selatan (MBKS), made his way to the new fishing village to check on progress at the old Sungai Apong Pier.
The visit wasn’t ceremonial. He walked the site, looked over the ongoing cleaning and beautification works, and spoke about the direction of the project. For years, the pier has served as a familiar landmark for fishermen and nearby residents. Restoring it means more than repainting structures or clearing debris. It means keeping a piece of local history alive.
The improvement works focus on tidying the surroundings and giving the area a fresher, more welcoming look, while holding on to its character. The pier still plays a practical role for the fishing community, so any upgrade needs to respect that balance.
Dato Wee shared his hopes for the outcome, saying he looks forward to the day the pier feels brand new again. His message was clear. Public spaces matter, especially those tied to livelihood and memory.
After the inspection, he stopped by the nearby vegetable market and picked up locally grown produce. The gesture carried weight. Supporting local farmers strengthens the wider community and reminds residents to value Sarawak’s own agricultural products.
The Sungai Apong Pier project fits into a wider push across Kuching to improve shared spaces. MBKS has been encouraging joint efforts between city authorities, community groups, and local businesses. When everyone plays a part, projects move faster and last longer.
Residents welcomed the mayor’s presence. For many, it signalled steady attention to grassroots needs. A refreshed pier would not only serve fishermen better but also offer visitors a glimpse of Kuching’s coastal heritage.
Festive celebrations often bring reflection, and this visit did just that. It showed how tradition and urban improvement move forward together, shaping a city that respects its roots while taking care of its future.
