Copyright dayakdaily
By Karen Bong KUCHING, Oct 28: Pay & Go has officially taken over as the operator (concessionaire) for the Kuching Smart Parking System under the jurisdictions of Kuching South City Council (MBKS) and Kuching North City Commission (DBKU), with full operations set to commence in January 2026. MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng announced that the company was selected through a Request for Proposal (RFP) process following a comprehensive evaluation of its technical capability, operational experience, and financial proposal. “As mentioned, implementation will begin with a trial phase starting Nov 1, coinciding with the expiry of the existing parking concession held by Kuching City Parking System (KCPS),” Wee said during a joint press conference with DBKU Mayor Dato Hilmy Othman at MBKS Council Chamber today. He added that the concession period is for 10 years, with an option for a five-year extension subject to performance review and mutual agreement. Welcoming the collaboration, Wee highlighted that the smart parking system marks a major step towards the digitalisation of municipal services in Sarawak and the enhancement of urban management efficiency. “The smart parking system represents a modern, efficient and data-driven approach to parking management. It is designed to enhance user convenience, strengthen enforcement efficiency, and improve revenue collection for local councils — in line with Sarawak’s smart city and digital economy initiatives,” he said. The new system utilises the GPS-enabled Pay & Go mobile application for parking registration, payment, and time extensions. Parking rates, including for season and reserved parking, will remain unchanged with 20 sen for the first 30 minutes, 50 sen for the next half hour, and 80 sen for the following half hour. Hilmy expressed confidence that the system will significantly enhance convenience through cashless and contactless payments, while improving enforcement and ensuring greater transparency in revenue management. “More importantly, it will provide valuable data insights to support urban mobility planning and smart city development for the benefit of Kuching residents and visitors alike,” he added. Both MBKS and DBKU, in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Health, Housing and Local Government and the Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA), will closely monitor the trial implementation to ensure a smooth transition, minimal disruption, and effective public communication. Public awareness campaigns will also be conducted to guide motorists on registration and usage procedures. “This initiative demonstrates Sarawak’s continued leadership in adopting smart city solutions that benefit both the people and local authorities, while promoting innovation and local technology development,” Wee concluded. Also present at the press conference were Pay & Go chief executive officer Eddie Wee and marketing director Michael Liong. — DayakDaily
