Sarawak Economic Development Corporation

KUCHING: Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) will continue to ensure Kuching Waterfront is a safe place for families.

SEDC chairman Datuk Talib Zulpilip said, SEDC will strictly make sure through enforcement, that any social ills happening at the waterfront would be eliminated.

"Any socially ill activities such as alcohol consuming, glue sniffing, and other disturbance will be taken care of by SEDC strictly.

"We want the waterfront to be a safe and peaceful place for families and public to have fun and leisure," said Talib, who is also Assistant Tourism and Heritage Minister.

He was speaking during the opening of the inaugural Kuching River Festival 2010 at the Square Tower at Kuching Waterfront here yesterday, which was organised by SEDC's subsidiary Sara Urusharta Sdn Bhd (Sara Urusharta) and Kuching Rivers Board.

Sara Urusharta general manager Alan Poh was also present.

The festival was sponsored by Sedidik SEDC; Nescafe; Maggi and Gas Petronas.

Various activities and events were organised, including fishing competition; cooking competition; aerobic session; 'menjala' or catching fish with nets demonstration; `Nescafe tarik' competition and kids coloring contest.

The Padungan Fire and Rescue Department also took part in the festival, demonstrating their fire extinguishing action.

Meanwhile, Talib said it would be good if the old culture during the Brooke's time could be revived.

"Back in the 60s till the 80s, a cannon was always fired at eight every morning at the waterfront here to symbolise the town had gone through the day peacefully.

"I hope that this culture can be revived because it is our (Kuching) history," he said.

Borneo Post
9 Aug 2010