KUCHING: Former Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Datuk James Chan is evidently a man of the people.
During an appreciation dinner in his honour at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching on Tuesday, a video compilation of testimonials presented by numerous individuals including mayors of friendship cities, local groups, and MBKS staff members showed that he was fondly remembered by the various sections of the community.
“What he has actually done is continue a people-centric policy — people first. He is what you would call a people’s mayor,” said Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian at the event.
He described Chan as one who made people feel at ease as he was one with the people.
Dr Sim also commended the former mayor for being very receptive to new ideas as well as being a “great mentor, especially to the younger councillors”. He added that it was good for these councillors to have a fatherly figure with a lot of experience.
“For me, it was an honour and privilege to work with Datuk James Chan, not just as his minister but also as a friend,” he remarked warmly.
Meanwhile, Chan mentioned many of MBKS’ major achievements, including achieving a record of one million attendees at this year’s Kuching Festival, the cleanliness of Kuching city, rebuilding of public toilets, forming friendship city relationship with seven cities, among others.
“These achievements have brought the best ‘spirit and soul’ of all MBKS staff translating their works into improved services benefitting the people and boosting Kuching city as a city to live in and enjoy,” he said.
Chan urged for full support be given to Dr Sim in order for MBKS to be able to provide better service for the people in the future.
He remarked that stepping down from his role was bittersweet.
“I have been very fortunate. This place, this work, and these people have meant so much to me. I am proud to be a leader of the team here.”
Chan ended his speech with three parting messages of advice, the first being to seek excellence in everything done.
“Secondly, we must constantly work to understand, love, care for and respect one another — promote racial unity.
“Thirdly, we must remember that in everything we do for our city, we are holding it in trust for our future generations,” he said.
Chan served as MBKS mayor from 2008 until August 31 this year, a period of 11 years.
Also in attendance were Dr Sim’s wife Datin Enn Ong, Chan’s wife Datin Catherine Sng, newly appointed MBKS mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng, deputy mayor Hilmy Othman, MBKS acting secretary Zuraidah Idris, and Local Government and Housing Ministry permanent secretary Bakrie Zaini.
