KUCHING: As Kuching City aspires to become a smart city, can it also be a unique bicycle city in Malaysia, say in 20 or 30 years?
A bicycle city, following the examples of European, Australian, Japanese and even Singaporean cities.
The concept of a futuristic bicycle city has gained traction worldwide, with cities like Bogota, Paris, and London reintroducing cycling as a mode of transportation to address congestion and pollution issues.
Imagine what Kuching City would look like if such plans are implemented, where bicycles share the roads with motorised vehicles, promoting greenery, reducing traffic, and enhancing the overall quality of life.
For that to happen, it will be up to the people to decide if they want say certain zones or roads be closed to motorised vehicles, allowing only bicycles.
While some individuals prefer the convenience and speed of cars for long distances, there is a growing number of people opting for bicycles as a means of transportation.
In recent years, cities across the world have introduced cycling infrastructure to tackle traffic congestion and pollution while emulating bicycle cities like those in the Netherlands and Barcelona. These cities boast a significant population of cyclists who rely on bicycles for commuting to work and even school.
A local businessman, who is an avid cyclist, believes that it is worth considering transforming Kuching City into a bicycle-friendly city, where cyclists can share the roads with motorised traffic.
“However, the authorities need to invest in infrastructure similar to those found in cities like Barcelona, Paris or Kyoto. These include bicycle parks, roads with bicycle sheds, and addressing the parking space issue for cars.
“Apart from the city centre, proper bicycle tracks should be built and maintained in the surrounding areas to attract cycling tourists. Sarawak’s scenic landscapes provide ample opportunities for cycling enthusiasts.
“The Covid-19 pandemic has led to a surge in people taking up cycling in Kuching as a recreational activity. However, for Kuching to truly become a bicycle city, it requires the development of dedicated cycling infrastructure.
“This may involve transforming certain roads into bicycle-free zones or constructing road shoulders and bicycle lanes,” he opined.
“The willingness of the community to embrace cycling as an alternative form of transport or commuting to work is crucial.
“It is an opportune time to re-engineer Kuching’s bicycle infrastructure, especially after witnessing a significant increase in bicycle ownership during the pandemic.
“If you build bike paths and get private sector players like restaurants and cafes as well as public buildings to have proper and secure bike parking bays, a lot of people will take to cycling as an alternative means of transport.
“Local city councils (DBKU-MBKS), the State Planning Unit, and the State Planning Authority should collaborate in developing a comprehensive bike infrastructure master plan. The support of these authorities is vital in promoting Kuching City as a cycling destination with proper facilities for cyclists and tourists alike,” he added.
For individuals to use bicycles for commuting to work, he highlighted that the provision of shower rooms in offices would be beneficial.
Kuching has made efforts to promote cycling, such as introducing blue zones dedicated to cycling at Main Bazaar. However, stricter enforcement is necessary to prevent illegal parking by cars in these areas.
While Kuching City strives to become a smart city with initiatives like hydrogen buses and light transport systems, comprehensive planning by the concerned authorities is essential to transform it into a bicycle city.
Singapore serves as an example, where cycling has gained popularity for both recreation and commuting, with dedicated bicycle lanes across the city.
Becoming a bicycle city would enhance Kuching’s livability, reduce health issues, facilitate easier mobility within the city center, and provide convenient parking spaces for bicycles.
By embracing a green and active lifestyle, Kuching would further solidify its position as one of Malaysia’s leading cities.
