KUCHING: Newly-minted Kuching North City Council (DBKU) mayor Hilmy Othman is a man with a mission: he wants to transform Kuching into a more child- and age-friendly city.
He is out to address the specific needs of both children and the city’s ageing population.
“We acknowledge that the city’s infrastructure and basic facilities, such as roads and waste management, have been adequately addressed by both DBKU and Kuching South City Council (MBKS).
“However, our focus now is to enhance facilities and infrastructure related to the safety and well-being of children and the elderly,” he told reporters after his swearing-in as the eighth DBKU mayor at Wisma Bapa here today.
While these aspects have not been overlooked, he stressed that there is a need to intensify efforts to strike a balance within the developing society.
“The ageing population is increasing due to improved healthcare facilities, resulting in longer life expectancy.
“To cater to the needs of the elderly, we plan to develop infrastructure such as open-space parks and elderly care clinics through engagement with the private sector as well as with Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, the Minister for Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development.
“These are our initial steps to enhance the quality of life for our residents,” he added.
In addition, Hilmy revealed that the council is considering the establishment of a dedicated task force in partnership with Fatimah’s ministry.
“There have been on-going efforts between Kuching South City Council (MBKS), Miri City Council and Fatimah’s ministry.
“By engaging her ministry, we aim to streamline the process of obtaining Cabinet approvals for essential initiatives, allowing the ministry to take the lead in facilitating these efforts,” he said, adding that while these changes won’t take effect immediately, strategic planning is underway to ensure a seamless integration of the new infrastructure into the city’s landscape.
