Kuching focuses on OKU access, healthy lifestyle initiatives, says DBKU director

KUCHING (Dec 22): The Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) is prioritising both inclusivity and community wellness, emphasising improved accessibility for individuals with disabilities (OKU) and promoting active, healthy lifestyles.

DBKU director Ramzi Abdillah said that while accessibility in the city has improved over the years, each facility continues to be assessed for further enhancements.

“In the past, accessibility for OKU was limited, but many malls have since made improvements,” he said.

“We are pleased with the progress, but more needs to be done to ensure greater attention and support.”

He stressed that achieving full accessibility is a collective effort.

“This is not something DBKU can achieve alone. It requires the cooperation of building owners, various agencies, even schools and the wider community.”

Alongside inclusivity, Ramzi highlighted DBKU’s drive to position Kuching as a recreational hub that prioritises public health.

He pointed to initiatives like the car-free morning programme held on the first and third Sundays of every month as a reflection of this commitment to fostering a healthy lifestyle.

“Also, DBKU strongly supports and encourages activities and collaborations that promote health and an active lifestyle, as they play an important role in fostering a healthier community,” he said when met by reporters at the Sarawak Hope Run 2025 here yesterday.

Co-organised by RevRun and Drills Running Club with support from the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Talent Development (MySED) and Rentap Muay Thai Gym, the charity run drew over 1,700 participants for a 5km run and a 1.6km walk.

It aimed to support children-related charities, including Rumah Kanak-Kanak Toh Puan Hajah Norkiah, the Association for the Welfare of Intellectually Disabled Children (Perkata), the Children’s Wish Society of Malaysia, and the Kuching Autistic Association.

Also present at the event were State Deputy Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Dolhadi Marzuki.

community healthy lifestyle Kuching North City Commission Ramzi Abdillah