Council praised for using technology to enhance services

SIBU: The Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) has been praised by Deputy Premier Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian for setting a leading example in utilising technology to improve the town’s services.
 
Dr Sim, who is also the Minister for Public Health, Housing, and Local Government, emphasised the significance of this effort in light of Sarawak’s current population trends.
 
“For their services, SMC uses as much mechanisation as possible, as much automation as possible, artificial intelligence, and do-it-yourself (DIY).
 
“That is so important for us because of the ageing population as well as the decreasing birth rate,” he said in his speech when officiating the 18th Borneo Cultural Festival at Dataran Tun Tuanku Haji Bujang here last night (July 14).
 
Dr Sim also said that his ministry has introduced Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to all local government authorities in the state.
 
“The ministry hopes that local councils can embark on more initiatives in communities in line with their vision for a liveable and sustainable city by 2031.
 
“In fact, local councils can pursue policies and practises that encourage sustainable consumption and production through the built environment, education, and awareness,” he said.
 
He stressed that his ministry is also facilitating all councils to educate communities on more sustainable consumption patterns of food and water, minimising waste by pursuing recycling programmes, and composting organic waste.
 
Also present were Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing, and Local Government Michael Tiang Ming Tee, Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting, SMC chairman Clarence Ting Ing Horh, and others.