By Dayak Daily Team,Editor KB

Copyright dayakdaily

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Sept 27: The Sarawak government has approved a new concession to implement a smart parking system in Kuching, featuring seamless mobile app payment and real-time monitoring with License Plate Recognition (LPR) technology, with a two-month pilot run scheduled to begin on Nov 1.

Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said the decision, endorsed at a recent state Cabinet meeting, aligns with the Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s vision for digital economy transformation and marks a significant step towards modernising the city’s urban infrastructure.

“We are now finalising the contract agreement and new system is expected to be officially launched on Jan 1, 2026, following the trial period.

“The upcoming smart parking system will integrate both council and commercial parking into a single mobile application, offering motorists a more convenient and efficient parking experience,” he said in a statement today.

Through the app, Wee explained that users will be able to pay for on-street council parking seamlessly, with the option to continue using traditional parking coupons until further notice.

Enforcement will also be enhanced with the use of advanced LPR technology, which allows real-time monitoring to ensure transparency and compliance, similar to the systems already in place at many shopping malls.

“In addition, the new system will integrate private shopping mall parking, enabling motorists to manage both public and private parking from the same application,” he added.

The mobile app will allow users to pay and extend their parking sessions directly or by scanning a QR code, while also providing real-time updates on parking availability.

“This feature will help drivers plan their trips more effectively, reduce traffic congestion, save time and fuel, and contribute to a cleaner and greener environment,” he said.

Wee said the initiative will make Kuching the first city in Malaysia to offer a truly seamless integration of public and private parking systems, simplifying the overall parking experience and strengthening the city’s position as a leader in smart city development.

“This modernised parking approach will not only simplify the daily lives of motorists but also enhance Kuching’s status as a connected, digital, and convenient city for all. We look forward to the continued support of the public in realising this vision,” he added. — DayakDaily