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Kota Kinabalu: Sabah Integrated Pest Management Association (Sipma) commended Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) for its ongoing enforcement efforts against dirty and poorly maintained business premises across the city.
Sipma Chairman Mervin Liew said the recent actions demonstrate the commitment of Kota Kinabalu Mayor Datuk Seri Dr Sabin Samitah, DBKK Deputy Chief Director Robert Lipon and DBKK City Environmental Health Director Syron Tunggolou towards upholding cleanliness standards, safeguarding public health and enhancing Kota Kinabalu’s image as a clean and welcoming city.
“Enforcement is important because it sends a clear message that cleanliness, public health and environmental responsibility should not be taken lightly. I would like to commend Dr Sabin, Robert and Syron for their continued efforts in ensuring Kota Kinabalu remains a clean, attractive and liveable city,” he said.
However, Liew stressed that achieving long-term success requires more than enforcement measures alone.
“While enforcement and penalties are necessary, there is also an opportunity to strengthen education and guidance for business operators. Many premises owners may not fully understand their responsibilities regarding the cleanliness and maintenance of walkways, rear lanes and surrounding areas,” he said.
He suggested that DBKK consider organising more on-site awareness programmes, practical seminars and engagement sessions for business operators who have received notices or compounds.
“Guidance should complement enforcement. When business operators understand the correct standards and expectations, compliance becomes more sustainable. This creates a culture of responsibility rather than relying solely on penalties.
“Prevention is always more effective and sustainable than repeated enforcement. When people understand the reasons behind the regulations and are given practical guidance on how to comply, they are more likely to maintain good practices over the long term,” he said.
According to Liew, a balanced approach combining enforcement, education and stakeholder engagement would contribute significantly towards a cleaner and more vibrant Kota Kinabalu.
“If we can successfully cultivate long-term cleanliness practices among businesses, Kota Kinabalu will continue to strengthen its reputation as a clean, safe and tourist-friendly city. This will benefit residents, businesses, visitors and the city’s image as a whole,” he said.
He added that maintaining cleanliness is a shared responsibility between local authorities, businesses and the wider community.
“A clean city is not built by enforcement alone. It is achieved when everyone plays their part,” he said.
