Premier gets updates on ART

KUCHING: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg received two courtesy visits at his office in Wisma Bapa Malaysia here, today (Oct 16).
The first courtesy visit was from a delegation of Morrow Architects & Planners Pte Ltd, led by their chairman Dr Liu Thai-Ker.
Liu said the purpose of the visit was to provide updates and discuss various planning issues related to the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) System in Kuching.
“What I can emphasize is the vital role of aligning public transportation with land use planning, which is crucial in providing the best transportation facilities for the people.
“At present, I am informed that approximately more than 85 percent of people in Singapore use railway or bus transportation facilities due to its highly efficient usage,” he said when met by the media after the courtesy visit.
He added that this balanced approach aligns with his belief that good urban planning is key to a city’s future success.
Also present were the director of Morrow Architects & Planners Pte Ltd, Li Yu Zhuo, association member Kim Seon Hee, Regional director and chief Integrated Property Advisory Service Dr Annie Woo.
The Premier also received a courtesy visit from the steering committee of the Sarawak Regatta-Kuching Waterfront Festival 2023 led by Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
Abdul Karim said that the 10-day festival would be filled with various exciting events involving all segments of society.
“Participation in this event will generate economic opportunities because besides the boat owners, their families will also be present,” he said.
He added that the purpose of the courtesy visit was to invite the Premier to attend the festival, which will take place from Oct 26 to Nov 5.
Also present were deputy ministers Datuk Sebastian Ting and Datuk Snowdan Lawan; ministry permanent secretary Datuk Sherrina Hussaini and Kuching Division Resident Norleha Shariff.