KUCHING: Recognising the importance of expanding recreational opportunities, it is important to maximise the utilisation of existing parks before embarking on further development.
Deputy Premier and Minister of Public Health, Housing, and Local Government Datuk Amar Dr. Sim Kui Hian said recreational parks should serve more than just the purpose of occupying vacant land.
“I understand it is never easy to develop recreational parks, but there is no use to develop it if it is not being used fully.
“For instance, I was quite late last night, after dinner I decided to visit Batu Kawa riverbank park, and I was surprised to see so many people coming from other districts such as Samarahan to enjoy the park.
“We do not want to build a park just because we have a piece of land and that is it,” he said during a media interaction at a Chinese New Year (CNY) gathering at Kuching South City Council (MBKS) complex today.
Recently, federal Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming unveiled plans to establish a minimum of 50 public recreational parks annually nationwide, with an allocated budget of approximately RM500,000 per park.
He highlighted the importance of enhancing green spaces to foster a healthier and more comfortable environment around residential areas.
“These public recreational are a form of therapy for residents who are currently facing various mental stress problems.
“When there are parks for them to rest and relax, then it will benefit them,” he said.
The CNY gathering, attended by MBKS Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng and other dignitaries, highlighted the communal significance of such initiatives.
