RUN-DOWN areas of Kuching city have been marked for a facelift in an urban renewal programme, Sarawak Chief Minister Abang Johari Openg said today.

He did not disclose which parts of the city are in the plan for fear it would spark property speculation.

But he mentioned areas of Padungan, Jalan Haji Taha and Jalan P Ramlee, as parts of the city that would be “rejuvenated and transformed”.

After attending the 32nd Kuching City Day event in Padungan, Abang Johari allayed fears that the renewal would alter the historical significance of Padungan.

“The old buildings will not be affected.”

He said the state government has agreed in principle to the proposed urban renewal programme.

He added it will be driven by the private sector.

The proposed areas will be served by a proposed public transport system of buses and rail, he said. – August 1, 2020.