Api-Api assemblyman Loi Kok Liang has called upon the Sabah government to reassess the parking fine rates in Kota Kinabalu. He proposes that the initial fine be lowered to RM10 to alleviate the financial strain on motorists.

Currently, fines start at RM30, escalate to RM100 if unpaid within seven days, and can soar to RM300 in the following month. Loi highlighted that this amount accounts for nearly 20 percent of the minimum wage of RM1,700, imposing a significant burden on drivers.

Concerns of Urban Residents

During his remarks at the State Legislative Assembly, Loi expressed that he was echoing the long-standing issues voiced by urban residents, particularly in Kota Kinabalu, who depend on private vehicles for their daily commutes and activities.

In addition to advocating for a reduction in the initial parking fine, Loi also urged the Sabah government to invest in enhancements for the Sabah Smart Parking application. He suggested incorporating a continuous sound notification feature that alerts users before their parking time expires, allowing them to renew their payments promptly and avoid fines due to oversight.

Addressing Parking and Social Issues

Loi further appealed to the authorities to increase the number of green parking bays or monthly parking slots throughout Kota Kinabalu. He mentioned receiving numerous complaints regarding the scarcity of green parking options, compelling users to park in yellow or red bays, which incur exorbitant fees, just to avoid tardiness.

Simultaneously, he urged the relevant authorities to tackle the issue of beggars in the city. He noted the presence of children of unknown origin begging at major road intersections, some even carrying infants, navigating through heavy traffic to solicit help.

This situation not only poses a danger to public safety but also tarnishes the image of Kota Kinabalu, adversely affecting tourists’ first impressions of Sabah. Loi emphasized that the development of tourism is not solely about attracting visitors but also about ensuring their safety and instilling confidence in their decision to stay in Sabah.

Call for Improved Safety and Infrastructure

Currently, the city faces several challenges, including begging, inadequate street lighting, blocked manholes, limited CCTV coverage, and incidents involving tourists being injured by air-gun shootings. Loi cautioned that if these matters are not addressed seriously, it will be challenging to cultivate tourist confidence.

He advocated for budget allocations to be directed towards resolving these issues, aiming to enhance tourist confidence, ensure safety, and improve overall satisfaction, thereby allowing Sabah’s tourism industry to flourish and advance.

The post Api-Api rep calls for review of Sabah Smart Parking fines, proposes RM10 starting rate appeared first on Borneo Post Online.