TAWAU: The Tawau Tiong Hua Chamber of Commerce (CCCT) Sabah called on traders and residents to remain patient and extend their cooperation during the initial implementation period of the Smart Parking System introduced by the Tawau Municipal Council (MPT).
CCCT Sabah Vice President and Government Affairs Committee Chairman Khoo Gait Piang
(pic) said the full implementation of the system in the town area began on Jan 1, 2026, with the management and collection of on-street parking charges now standardised under MPT’s administration.
He noted that the new system has drawn widespread attention and sparked extensive discussion among traders and the general public.
“In this regard, the public is encouraged to channel any views, enquiries or suggestions for improvement in a rational and courteous manner through the appropriate channels, so that feedback can be heard and addressed more effectively,” he said.
Khoo added that CCCT would continue to gather feedback from its member traders while maintaining ongoing communication and coordination with MPT.
“The Chamber hopes the system will be continuously improved throughout its implementation to better align with Tawau’s business environment and the public’s affordability,” he said.
Under the new system, Khoo said all yellow-box parking bays in the town area are now subject to a flat rate of RM0.48 per hour, replacing the previous progressive charging method.
Meanwhile, the monthly fee for white-box reserved parking bays has been reduced from RM500 to RM300 per month, excluding SST.
He also noted that MPT has announced full exemption from parking charges on Sundays and public holidays.
Commenting on the monthly parking pass issue that has drawn public concern, Khoo explained that MPT had informed CCCT that existing legal provisions under the new parking system do not currently include a mechanism for monthly passes, resulting in a temporary suspension of their implementation.
“However, MPT has committed to submitting an application to the relevant authorities to review the feasibility of reintroducing monthly parking passes, particularly to meet the needs of office workers and regular users working in the town area,” he said.
In terms of enforcement, Khoo said MPT is adopting a phased and considerate approach, whereby enforcement officers will issue friendly reminders during the initial stage. Only after a vehicle owner has received five reminders will an official summons be issued.
This approach, he said, is intended to provide sufficient time for the public to familiarise themselves with the operation of the Smart Parking System.
Apart from the use of the MPT Smart Parking and YONO mobile applications, Khoo said MPT will continue to maintain selected parking counters and self-service kiosks that allow cash top-ups.
In the next phase, MPT also plans to introduce physical and digital parking coupons to ensure convenience for users who do not own or face difficulties using smartphones.
Khoo also expressed appreciation to MPT President Joseph Pang for his openness and understanding throughout the implementation process.
“The willingness of MPT to make adjustments and improvements within the regulatory framework after listening to feedback from traders, residents and various organisations reflects the authority’s concern for public voices and its commitment to continuous improvement,” he said.
He added that CCCT members who wish to submit feedback may contact CCCT Sabah via email at [ccctawau@gmail.com](mailto:ccctawau@gmail.com), or leave comments and private messages through the Chamber’s official Facebook page, Tawau Business Forum. Enquiries can also be made via WhatsApp at 017-850 1788.
Members of the public with enquiries or complaints may contact MPT via the Office Hours Hotline at 089-701 666, WhatsApp 013-880 1666, Technical Support Lines 018-283 2238 / 010-239 8893, or email [perkhidmatansokongan02@gmail.com](mailto:perkhidmatansokongan02@gmail.com).
