KUCHING: Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Datuk James Chan will be clocking out from his office here in Jalan Padungan for the last time today. At the farewell dinner with MBKS staff and councillors at the Riverside Hotel Astana Wing on Wednesday, Chan bade his staffs and councillors farewell after 11 years at the helm of the city.
He expressed his gratitude to the unwavering support and hard work contributed by the staff and councillors. “Without your support, many policies and ideas may not have come through and I am very thankful to everyone who has helped me through the years,” he said.
In his farewell note, he called on all staff to uphold integrity when performing their task and be reminded to continue to preserve, protect and serve the people of Kuching. “Always place the interests of the people at heart and serve them for the betterment of Kuching city,” he said. Recalling his memories during his years of serving, Chan said MBKS has been his second family and to leave the place that he has come to love was even more difficult. “The passion and unity when getting work done has made us closer, like a family.
“I remember there was one time, Tuan Haji Mohd Taufik bought me a new pair of shoes when we had a trip to Kuala Lumpur. “He told me he bought the shoes for me because his brother asked him why I wear cheap shoes,” quipped Chan, drawing chuckles from the floor.
Reiterating his continuous support for the government’s effort, he expressed his hope for the city council to continue to strive for the betterment of Kuching people. “In essence, I am happy to wish all the best to all of you in continuing to serve people and set the direction for excellence.
“I feel privileged to have been here to witness many historic moments that we have achieved together,” he expressed. Also present at the farewell dinner were the former councillors who retire effective this year.
