KOTA KINABALU: 16 April 2026 - A parking fee policy set to be enforced in the Kapayan Ridge area starting May 1 has sparked widespread public dissatisfaction.
Warisan’s Kapayan State Assemblyman, lawyer Chin Tek Ming, has firmly opposed the Kota Kinabalu City Hall’s move to implement the charges amid the current economic slowdown and rising cost of living.
He stated that at a time when people are already struggling with increasing living expenses, the authorities’ decision to introduce additional charges is not only ill-timed but also reflects a lack of empathy toward the people’s hardships.
“Prices of goods are rising across the board, and the people are already under heavy financial pressure. Yet the authorities insist on implementing parking fees, completely disregarding the people’s livelihood.”
He stressed that the government should prioritise addressing livelihood issues and introduce measures to ease the burden on the public, rather than imposing additional costs.
He called on City Hall to review the policy and to conduct broader public consultations in order to formulate a solution that better reflects the people’s needs.
City Hall has already put up large banners in the Kapayan Ridge area and issued notices on vehicles parked there, informing that parking fees will be enforced starting next month.
In addition, many local traders and residents have expressed concern over the upcoming charges, fearing that the move may reduce consumer spending and negatively impact local business activities.
YB Chin Tek Ming
ADUN Kepayan
