KUCHING: Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) has taken proactive steps in its efforts to realise the aspirations of a smart city by launching the first Smart Pole project at Kuching Waterfront.

Sarawak Deputy Minister of Utility and Telecommunication, Datuk Abdul Rahman Junaidi said the project, which was fully completed on 18 November 2024, is part of a smart technology initiative to improve the efficiency of city services.

“This project involves the installation of five ‘Smart Pole’ units at strategic areas of Kuching Riverbank, with high-tech features that include energy-efficient LED lights, digital signage, security cameras, public Wi-Fi support, as well as a weather-friendly design decorated with Sarawakian cultural motifs.

“Each ‘Smart Pole’ is equipped with the latest technology that not only enhances safety, comfort and convenience, but also reflects the unique identity of the state’s diverse cultures,” he said at a press conference at the Godown Amphitheatre at Kuching Waterfront on Saturday.

According to a statement from DBKU, the implementation of this project also supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as SDG 7: energy efficiency, SDG 11: sustainable communities, and SDG 13: climate action through reduced carbon emissions.

In addition, this initiative is in line with the Sarawak Post-Covid19 Development Strategy (PCDS 2030) which emphasises the integration of smart technology in infrastructure development.

This project was initiated on 19 August 2024 with a special allocation of RM200,000 from the Ministry of Local Government Development (KPKT) through BP.1 funds.

The 'Smart City Early Adopter' award received by DBKU in 2023 was a catalyst for this initiative, thus recognising their continuous efforts in introducing the smart city concept.

This project is hoped to not only attract more tourists to Kuching Waterfront, but also strengthen the city's position as one of the main tourist destinations in Sarawak.

The combination of modern technology and traditional cultural elements makes the 'Smart Pole' a symbol of Kuching's transformation towards a more developed and resilient future.

Also present were DBKU Mayor, Dato Hilmy Othman; DBKU Council Member, Datin Mary Sa'diah Zainuddin; Sih Hua Tong and DBKU Director, Salwa Pauzi. - UKASnews