Lowering parking fees being considered

4 October 2024

PENAMPANG: Due to public grouses, the Penampang Municipal Council (PMC) is currently evaluating the potential for lowering parking fees in some areas throughout the area.

"We are analysing various factors, including costs, maintenance, community needs, and economic implications," stated PMC President Francis Chong during the oath-taking ceremony for new PMC members at the ITCC Shopping Mall, recently.

The event was officiated by Deputy Chief Minister II and Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Joachim Gunsalam.

Francis acknowledged the growing dissatisfaction among residents regarding parking fees, which has been prominently voiced on social media, in newspapers, and during informal discussions in local coffee shops.

"We recognise the financial burden that high parking charges can impose on our residents, especially those who depend on their vehicles for daily work and errands," he remarked.

He emphasised that the PMC is dedicated to finding a solution that balances resident welfare with the district's needs.

"We have engaged in multiple discussions with residents and stakeholders to gather insights and proposals. Public input is essential in our decision-making process, and we hope that collaborative efforts will lead to a fair and balanced resolution," he added.

The ceremony also marked the induction of 24 new PMC members, comprising professionals and community leaders from diverse backgrounds. Francis urged the new members to approach their responsibilities with dedication and integrity.

"As PMC members, you play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being and development of our community. I encourage all members to work together harmoniously and professionally in fulfilling the tasks entrusted to you," he stated.

He reiterated the importance of ethical conduct, noting, "As advised by the Minister of Local Government, PMC members should not use their appointments for personal gain. Throughout my tenure, not a single PMC member has exploited their position for contracts or projects, and I commend them for this professionalism."

Regarding future development in Penampang, Francis mentioned that the council has received numerous suggestions from politicians, community leaders, NGOs, and individuals on how to enhance the district.

"We also have existing references that may be outdated, and we can utilise the new insights and proposals as our guide," he said.

He highlighted the Penampang District Development Plan 2024-2035, developed in collaboration with the Penampang Member of Parliament's office, which focuses on five key strategies.

Those strategies are establishing a main business centre, fostering local economic development, enhancing community settlement divisions, promoting a clean and green environment, and ensuring effective governance.

Francis assured that the merger of the Penampang District Council and the Penampang District Office into the PMC has not resulted in the elimination of any functions.

"Instead, this merger aims to provide more efficient public service delivery. The licensing division has been unified, and we anticipate that issues related to license renewals and new applications will no longer be contentious," he explained.