Copyright dayakdaily
By Amanda L KUCHING, 27 Oct: The forthcoming transition to a digital parking system will not result in job losses for parking attendants, as additional manpower will be required to support expanded coverage and operational needs, assured Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng. He emphasised that despite the move towards digitalisation, human resources remain essential to ensure proper enforcement, public assistance and overall system efficiency when the smart parking system comes into force beginning January 2026. “Any parking system requires personnel to operate. It cannot rely solely on automated processes,” he told reporters after the appointment ceremony for the council’s Market and Hawker Liaison Committee members here today. Wee explained that while the current coverage is limited to DBKU and MBKS jurisdictions, it will be expanded in phases to Samarahan and Padawan areas before reaching Sibu, Miri and other local council territories. As the system’s scope grows, he noted that additional staff will naturally be required. He said experienced personnel currently involved in parking enforcement may be retained and absorbed by the new operator to ensure continuity and capability. “It is more practical to utilise individuals who are already familiar with the system rather than training new staff from the beginning,” he added. Responding to public concerns raised on social media, particularly from senior citizens and those without smartphones, Wee said arrangements are being made to ensure an inclusive and accessible system for all users. He appealed for public patience and cooperation throughout the two-month pilot phase and acknowledged that minor issues may arise during the transition. “We will prepare for any challenges and aim to ensure the changeover proceeds as smoothly as possible,” he said, adding that enforcement will be carried out with due consideration so that motorists are not unfairly penalised. Wee also gave assurance that outstanding matters involving unused parking coupons and BorneoPay app credits are being resolved and that clear instructions will be issued in due course. — DayakDaily
