KUCHING (Aug 28): The new nine-storey Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) complex at Mile 12 Jalan Kuching-Serian will not just be an administrative hub but also a civic landmark for the area.

MPP chairman Tan Kai said the RM70 million building will be a place for governance, recreation, culture, and community life.

He said the new office is part of a 20-acre masterplan inspired by the hornbill – Sarawak’s state bird.

“Its design will embody strength, resilience, and community spirit,” he said during the groundbreaking officiated at by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg today.

Tan said the masterplan will be implemented in five phases beginning with the complex, where groundworks are already underway.

“The main construction will begin in 2026, with completion expected in three years.”

The second phase will see the construction of a two-storey public amenities building to serve residents and visitors, followed by an open-air amphitheatre with a wetland pond – a green oasis for recreation, climate resilience, and cultural performances within the third phase.

A vibrant festival market for food fairs, night markets, and cultural events to boost local businesses and tourism, as well as an integrated sports centre to promote active living and community spirit will be constructed in the fourth and fifth phases respectively.

“Sustainable development is not just an aspiration for Padawan – it is a commitment.

“This new complex is a flagship project under the Padawan Green City Action Plan. It translates our sustainability principles into action and sets a new standard for the future,” Tan stressed.

He pointed out that the current office has been in use since 1991, and the growth of Padawan has meant the needs of the community have changed.

“It is now time to move forward with a modern, sustainable, and purpose-built office. An office that is more than just a place to pay fines or taxes. It will be a people-centric civic hub, where residents feel a sense of belonging, where they can connect, engage, and access services in a more efficient, comfortable, and welcoming environment,” he explained.

He pointed out that the building is designed to achieve Green Building Index certification, incorporating energy-efficient systems, rainwater harvesting, passive cooling, and sustainable materials.

Rooftop solar panels and other green features will help cut costs while reducing the environmental footprint, he said.

“A green-certified building is more than a symbol. It is a statement of our values – our commitment to environmental stewardship, resource efficiency, and climate resilience.

“This vision aligns with the wider Asean agenda on climate change – to restore ecosystems, conserve resources, and adopt sustainable land and water practices. Through the Padawan Green City Action Plan, we are doing our part to contribute to a greener and more climate-resilient future,” he added.

He thanked Abang Johari for approving an RM60 million grant under the 12th Malaysia Plan, which forms the core of funding for the flagship project.

“We also acknowledge with appreciation the vision and persistence of our former chairman, (Batu Kitang assemblyman) YB Datuk Lo Khere Chiang , who laid the groundwork and pushed this project forward in its early stages,” he added.