Kota Kinabalu: The City Hall (DBKK) would take appropriate action against the organiser of the recent Songkran Sunset Splash Run over several aspects of the event’s implementation that were found not to have fully complied with approved conditions, particularly involving water usage and the impact on cleanliness and safety in public areas.
DBKK said the inaugural programme had successfully drawn a large crowd and created a lively and active atmosphere in the city.
It said running events are generally encouraged as they add value to the tourism and local economic sectors while promoting a healthy lifestyle through community activities.
However, DBKK stressed that it was not directly involved in organising the programme and that any approval granted was fully subject to compliance with the conditions set.
Following monitoring, DBKK said it viewed the matter seriously as it involved compliance with event approval conditions as well as the cleanliness of Kota Kinabalu city.
It said the organiser had been directed to carry out immediate cleaning works and ensure the affected areas were restored to their original condition.
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DBKK said it remained committed to supporting events that benefit Kota Kinabalu, but would not compromise on any breach of conditions and regulations.
KSRun Athletic Club, in its official statement, said it appreciated all feedback received and understood public concerns, particularly regarding water usage and the concept of the event in relation to cultural elements.
The club said the event was a fun run with water activities after the run, not a cultural festival.
It said the name Songkran was chosen for its Sanskrit meaning of movement, transition and change, and was not meant to reflect any specific cultural or traditional festival or Thai cultural practice.
It said all water used was bought by the organiser and had been planned six months earlier.
The club said the event attracted participants from outside Sabah, tourists, walk-in tourists informed by local hotels and runners from outside Kota Kinabalu.
It also admitted that some public sensitivities may have been overlooked, apologised for this and said it would be more careful in future with event naming, communication, organisation and sensitivity towards stakeholders.
