KUCHING, Dec 23 2025: Kuching South City Council (MBKS) has completed the upgrading of an persons with disabilities (OKU)-friendly toilet facility at Petanak Market as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance accessibility, safety and dignity within public spaces.
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Caption: MBKS Mayor Wee Hong Seng giving the thumbs up to the upgrading toilet, costing RM80,000, at Petanak Market.
Converted from an existing storage area, the facility was officially handed over this afternoon and witnessed by MBKS Mayor Wee Hong Seng, who said the improvement reflects MBKS’ commitment to inclusive urban development.
He explained that while public toilets are available on the upper level of the market, repeated requests had been received from elderly users and traders due to difficulties accessing the facilities in time, particularly during peak hours.
“This OKU-friendly toilet is designed not only for persons with disabilities, but also to serve senior citizens and the general public,” he said, adding that the larger space allows wheelchair users to move comfortably and safely within the facility.
He said the upgrading was initiated following feedback raised by hawkers and market representatives earlier this year, with site suitability assessed before construction works commenced.
Built in 1988, Petanak Market has served the community for over three decades and remains an important social and economic gathering point, particularly for elderly residents who frequent the market in the early mornings.
Wee noted that MBKS has been implementing gradual improvement works at the market, including repainting completed last year, as well as recent upgrades to lighting and ventilation systems.
“These improvements may not happen all at once, but as a city council, we will continue to upgrade public areas based on available funding to ensure markets remain functional, comfortable and relevant,” he said.
He added that MBKS views traditional markets as vital community spaces that preserve social interaction, cultural identity and local produce diversity, while efforts are also underway to attract younger generations through better facilities and future community-based activities.
The upgrading project was implemented under the BP1 allocation from the Ministry of Housing and Local Government, with a total cost of RM80,880 and took approximately four months to complete, including rectification works to ensure compliance with specifications prior to handover.
Wee said all MBKS projects undergo transparent tendering, evaluation and inspection processes, with payments only made after works meet required standards, in line with the council’s emphasis on accountability and quality delivery.
