MBKS Mayor vows support for victims, will not evade responsibility in festival ride mishap

By Karen Bong

KUCHING, Aug 9: The investigation report into the amusement ride accident at the Kuching Festival Fair has yet to be released, but Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng has pledged full support for the victims and vowed not to evade responsibility.

Wee said MBKS acted immediately on the night of the incident, with him personally visiting the scene to order the closure of the entire amusement facility.

That same night and the following day, Wee along with council officers contacted and visited all victims to check on their conditions and offer assistance.

“When an accident happens, our first priority is the well-being of the victims. Regardless of where the final responsibility lies, we must first ensure they are in stable condition before addressing accountability.

“Only after we have gathered the facts from victims and all parties involved will we explain the matter to the public. We cannot rely on just one side of the story or place blame on a single party. There must be a cause, and we must act fairly on the issue rather than engage in personal attacks,” he said during his ShallWeeTalk live session today.

He assured that MBKS will continue to monitor the victims’ recovery and cover their medical expenses, adding that it was fortunate the incident did not result in more serious injuries.

“No matter the severity of the injuries, our duty is to ensure such incidents do not happen again,” he affirmed.

Wee stressed that although he is not part of the festival’s organising committee, he has a duty as mayor to step forward, take responsibility, and address the matter.

“No one wishes for accidents to happen, but once they do, we must act promptly, comfort the victims, identify and resolve the problems, and learn from the experience, not politicise the incident or point fingers,” he said.

He emphasised that if negligence by the amusement ride contractor is proven, the council will take action, including blacklisting the company and seeking compensation.

Wee also cautioned against drawing premature conclusions, noting that the full investigation report is still pending.

“MBKS will continue to meet with relevant agencies and authorities, as well as gather statements from victims, to ensure that all actions are based on facts rather than personal attacks,” he said.

He called on the public to refrain from unfounded accusations before the investigation concludes, singling out certain political figures for criticising him instead of showing concern for the victims.

“Instead of arguing, we should focus on finding solutions, preventing similar accidents, and improving facilities,” he said.

Wee reaffirmed his commitment to face the matter directly, learn from it, and use the experience to serve the people more effectively.

“I have not evaded responsibility and will face it head-on, having held a live press conference to address the public,” he added. — DayakDaily

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