KUCHING: The Kuching South City Council (MBKS) has achieved another milestone with three of its initiatives being named among the Top 29 Finalists of the 2026 JCI Malaysia Sustainable Development Awards (JCIM SDA).

The recognition reflects MBKS’ continuous efforts to translate the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into practical initiatives that create meaningful impact for the community.

MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said having three MBKS initiatives recognised among the Top 29 Finalists demonstrates how local governments can play an important role in advancing the SDGs.

“The SDGs should not remain as international goals that people only read about. They must be translated into actions that people can see, experience and benefit from in their daily lives. As the local authority closest to the community, MBKS has a responsibility to advocate the SDGs and turn them into practical initiatives,” he said.

The three MBKS initiatives selected as finalists are Kuching Natural Farmers Market, MBKS Smart Pole Initiative and Ausome Park.

He added that the three initiatives address different aspects of sustainable development, from creating livelihood opportunities and building smarter public spaces to promoting inclusivity for people of different abilities.

The Kuching Natural Farmers Market initiative provides a platform for local farmers and small producers to market their produce directly to the community, while supporting local livelihoods, encouraging sustainable agriculture and strengthening the local economy.

Meanwhile, the MBKS Smart Pole initiative uses technology to improve public spaces by integrating smart features that support safety, environmental monitoring and better management of public parks.

Ausome Park promotes inclusive public spaces where children of different abilities can play and interact together, which demonstrates MBKS’ commitment to ensuring that public facilities are accessible and inclusive, particularly for children with special needs.

Dato Wee said MBKS views its role as going beyond the provision of basic municipal services.

“A city council is not only about roads, drains, rubbish collection and enforcement. We must also be an advocate and catalyst for sustainable development. Every initiative, whether big or small, should contribute towards improving the quality of life of our people and building a better city for the next generation,” he said.

He added that the recognition also belongs to the MBKS councillors, staff, community partners and residents who have supported and participated in the Council’s various initiatives.

“Having three MBKS initiatives among the Top 29 Finalists is an encouragement for us to continue. More importantly, we hope these projects can show that the SDGs can begin at the local level, within our neighbourhoods, parks and communities, Dato Wee said.

“MBKS remains committed to integrating the SDGs into its programmes and development initiatives as it works towards building a more inclusive, resilient, smart and sustainable Kuching South,” he said. -UKASnews