KUCHING: The Kuching Civic Centre is set for redevelopment following recent safety concerns after part of its roof collapsed into a nearby resident’s garden.
The collapse has sparked alarm over the deteriorating condition of the Civic Centre, prompting the Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Ministry to prioritise its future.
Their Deputy Minister, Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu, said that the ministry is currently looking at a master plan, not only for Kuching but for other civic centres as well, as many of them have outlived their original purpose.
“Unfortunately, with the ongoing inclement weather, we have to address issues like this, not just here, but in other areas too. We’ve even heard reports of landslides
“Yes, the Civic Centre is under the purview of the ministry.
“In the past, when there weren’t many large hotels, the Civic Centre was the venue for major functions – whether for leaders or weddings.
“But now, there are many more venue options available.
“So we are actively planning for the redevelopment of the Kuching Civic Centre.
“Sarawak Lawn Tennis Association (SLTA) president Datuk Patrick Liew, here is already aware of this, and we’ve had discussions,” he said.
He said this during a press conference after launching the Asia-Oceania Final Qualifying Tournament for the International Tennis Federation (ITF) World Junior Tennis U14 Boys’ Final at Sarawak Lawn Tennis Association (SLTA) centre here today.
Rentap assured that the Public Works Department (JKR) is preparing a proposal, which will be presented to the ministry in the coming months, outlining what could be done with the site.
“We see great potential in the Civic Centre – it’s a lovely space right in the middle of the city, and we want it to be something useful for the surrounding community.
“Unfortunately, the incident has occurred. We will get our technical team, with the help of JKR, to assess the safety of the situation.
“We must also be aware that the weather has become increasingly unpredictable due to climate change, so we need to be extra cautious.
“Our team will inspect the rest of the roof structure,” he added.
He also noted the ongoing maintenance challenges faced by many buildings post-COVID, which have left structures vulnerable to further damage.
“Combined with the changing weather patterns, safety has become a top priority.
“So, with the combination of weather factors and aging infrastructure, for the safety of everyone, we will make it a priority to have the structure thoroughly checked,” he said.
