SANDAKAN: Sandakan Municipal Council (MPS) President Walter Kenson stated that the council is gradually seeing positive outcomes in its efforts to stimulate the local economy, create a cleaner environment, improve basic infrastructure, and promote urban planning.
He emphasised that only through cooperation between the government and the public can real improvements in public cleanliness and service efficiency be achieved and prioritised.
He made these remarks during a meeting yesterday with prominent businessman Dato John Khoo, where they exchanged views on current public welfare and infrastructure development issues in Sandakan.
Walter Kenson noted that the council has recently been reviewing and streamlining cumbersome administrative procedures, such as simplifying the process of applying for trading licences, reducing handling times, and improving overall efficiency.
“The municipal council is committed to action, not just empty talk,” he said.
He also revealed that the council is currently studying the possibility of waiving application fees and size restrictions for LED signage.
In addition, there are plans to set up a dedicated market management committee to accelerate the resolution of operational and infrastructure issues in local markets, thereby improving supervision and service delivery for both vendors and consumers.
On the other hand, Dato John Khoo highlighted concerns over the hygiene conditions of public markets, toilets, and eateries, noting that they form visitors’ and residents’ first impressions of Sandakan.
“Many eateries are barely meeting hygiene standards, and some are in extremely poor condition,” he said, calling on the council to enforce stricter regulations and supervision.
“Protecting public health and enhancing the city’s image must go hand in hand,” he said.
Regarding the municipal council’s initiative to encourage building owners from the city centre to Taman Nam Tung to repaint their premises, both parties agreed that city beautification should not rely solely on government action.
Businesses, too, have a role to play in contributing to the community. Dato John Khoo suggested that big corporations perform their corporate social responsibility by participating in the repainting of buildings and the beautification of the town.
Walter Kenson responded positively, pledging that the council will continue to review its current policy frameworks and promote more forward-looking urban governance models.
He added that the council welcomes participation from individuals and organisations in public affairs.
“Only through the collective efforts of all parties can policy reforms be implemented effectively and swiftly,” he said.
Dato John Khoo also reaffirmed his commitment to serving as a bridge between the people and the government, saying that he will not only relay grassroots voices accurately but also actively participate in public discourse to help promote practical and well-formed policies.
