KUCHING: Maintenance works on Jalan Sherip Masahor are underway following recent public concerns over overgrown grass along the road, said Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng.

In a statement on Sunday, Dato Wee said maintenance responsibility for the road was handed over by the Public Works Department (JKR) to MBKS in July 2026.

He said following the handover, MBKS began making the necessary maintenance arrangements, including determining the scope of work, procurement requirements and funding.

“While the relevant allocation has yet to be disbursed, MBKS proceeded with an open tender to ensure that the maintenance works could move forward in accordance with proper procurement procedures and principles of transparency and accountability,” he said.

Dato Wee said the tender process was concluded last Friday, with the contract expected to be awarded shortly.

He said grass cutting and related maintenance works would commence upon completion of the appointment process.

“MBKS understands the public’s expectation that roads and public spaces should be properly maintained.

“At the same time, when public funds are involved, the Council has a responsibility to ensure that appointments and expenditure are carried out through the appropriate procedures,” he said.

Dato Wee said action to address the issue was already underway, adding that public feedback remained an important part of good local governance.

He said it was equally important for the public to be provided with the full context, particularly when steps to address an issue had already been initiated.

“For MBKS, the focus is straightforward: identify the issue, take responsibility where it falls within our jurisdiction, follow the proper process, and get the work done,” he said.

He added that MBKS would see the process through and ensure the necessary maintenance works along Jalan Sherip Masahor were carried out. -UKASnews