Kota Kinabalu: Mayor Datuk Seri Dr Sabin Samitah made the rounds on crowded areas here, including the Central Market and its jetty, drawing praise from the public for his hands-on approach to maintaining cleanliness and safety standards.
The inspections on Feb 6 and 7 covered restaurant restrooms along Jalan Pantai, food stalls at the Central Market and the jetty facility behind the market — all key locations frequented by locals and tourists alike.
At the Central Market on Saturday, the Mayor examined overall cleanliness standards, compliance with food handling and preparation practices, solid and liquid waste management, as well as adherence to licensing conditions and public health regulations.
The inspection also scrutinised equipment cleanliness, storage of raw materials and prepared food and vendors’ awareness of hygiene importance in protecting consumer health.
“Compliance with food hygiene practices is not merely a legal requirement but a moral responsibility of all parties to ensure food safety and public welfare are always protected,” Sabin said.
The jetty inspection focused on operational area cleanliness, public facility conditions and maintenance, infrastructure safety and user traffic flow.
Safety compliance for users and boat operators was also assessed, including the jetty’s physical condition, environmental safety features and management preparedness to prevent accidents.
“Cleanliness and safety aspects in public areas such as markets and jetties require continuous attention as they have direct implications on public safety, comfort and confidence, besides reflecting the image and reputation of Kota Kinabalu City,” he said.
On Friday, the Mayor visited restaurant restrooms around Jalan Pantai, issuing warnings to establishments to maintain cleanliness at all times to preserve the city’s image and provide positive impressions to visitors.
“The Mayor’s dedication to personally inspect these facilities on a weekend, outside regular office hours, shows genuine commitment to the people,” said a Central Market visitor who witnessed the inspection.
“Rather than taking the day off, he chose to come down to the ground level … that is leadership we can see and feel,” he said.
“We appreciate that the Mayor does not just sit in the office. He takes time during weekends to ensure our markets and public spaces are safe and clean for everyone, whether locals or tourists,” said another member of the public echoing similar sentiments.
