Francis
PENAMPANG (Oct 4): The Penampang Municipal Council is currently reviewing and considering reducing parking fees in certain areas following complaints and dissatisfaction among some Penampang residents.
Its president, Francis Chong, said he understands their concerns, especially those who use vehicles daily for work and daily affairs.
“Therefore, the council is currently reviewing and considering reducing parking fees in certain areas.
“We are examining various factors, including maintenance costs, residents’ needs, and the overall economic impact.
“Our goal is to find the best solution to ensure the welfare and convenience of the residents of Penampang are upheld,” he said at the swearing-in ceremony for members of the Penampang Municipal Council for the 2024-2026 term, held at ITCC here yesterday.
The ceremony was officiated by the Deputy Chief Minister II Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam, who is the Minister of Local Government and Housing.
Francis added that he had held several meetings and discussions with residents and stakeholders to gather opinions and suggestions.
“The views and suggestions from various parties are essential so that we can reach a fair and balanced decision for the benefit of the residents of Penampang,” he said.
Chong also said the Penampang District Strategic Development Plan 2024-2035, initiated by Penampang Member of Parliament Datuk Ewon Benedick, will serve as an additional reference for developing the district.
He stated that among the five strategies outlined in the development plan are the establishment of a primary business center, local economic generation, housing development, a clean and green environment, and the establishment of effective and efficient governance.
“There are many suggestions and opinions from community leaders, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and individuals on how we can develop Penampang.
“We also have existing references, some of which may be outdated or no longer relevant, and we can use these as a reference, with the most recent being the book published by IDS titled ‘Penampang District Strategic Development Plan 2024-2035.’
“This book (plan) was published in collaboration with Penampang MP Datuk Ewon Benedick, who is also the Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives,” he said.
Meanwhile, Parti Warisan (Warisan) Wanita Penampang Division chief Junny Clement Simol thanked Chong who has announced the council’s decision to review the car parking rates in several business and commercial areas in Penampang.
She said the council’s decision would certainly bring relief to all, especially the elderly, retirees and those with low incomes in this district.
“Once again we, from the Wanita Warisan Penampang, would like to state here that we support the introduction of a car parking system in Donggongon town including other business and commercial areas in this district because this can help in stimulating the economy of Penampang but the rates charged should be reasonable.
“We believe this issue can actually be avoided because the engagement session was not carried out earlier between the public and stakeholders in Kapayan with the Penampang District Council (at that time) before the high parking rate was imposed.
“We hope this issue will also serve as a lesson to all, especially the representatives representing the Kapayan State Assembly because the vehicle parking payment involves the Kapayan State Assembly area.
“As an organization that actively meets with the grassroots about such issues, Wanita Warisan Penampang and its representatives are also ready to participate in any dialogue session or meeting between the Penampang Municipal Council and stakeholders in regards to the new parking rate,” she concluded.
