Sibu: Concerns over the implementation of Sibu’s electronic parking system have prompted calls for greater transparency from the Sibu Municipal Council (SMC), particularly regarding the management of parking fee revenues and the system’s ongoing technical issues.
Special assistant to Sibu MP Oscar Ling Chai Yew, Irene Wong Lee Ting said residents deserve clear information on how parking collections are being utilised and whether the revenue is contributing to improvements in public facilities and urban infrastructure.
Her remarks come amid continued public feedback following the full rollout of the SMC Cares electronic parking system earlier this month. Among the concerns raised are slow system responses, delayed payment updates and difficulties encountered when internet connectivity is weak.
“Such technical limitations could result in motorists being wrongly identified as having failed to pay for parking, potentially leading to the issuance of compound notices despite attempts to make payment,” she said.
She also pointed to persistent internet coverage issues in certain parts of Sibu, as well as complaints about delays in the application’s location detection function, which she said could unfairly expose users to enforcement action.
Given these challenges, Wong urged SMC to adopt a reasonable approach to enforcement while improvements are being made to the system. She further proposed the introduction of a clear and accessible appeal process for users who may be affected by technical glitches.
Beyond operational concerns, Wong called on the council to provide more detailed disclosures on the financial aspects of the electronic parking initiative.
“SMC had previously projected annual savings of approximately RM700,000 through the elimination of printed parking coupons. However, information on the costs associated with developing, maintaining and operating the electronic system has not been publicly detailed,” she added.
According to Wong, greater transparency would allow residents to evaluate whether the anticipated savings are being achieved and how parking revenues are being reinvested into local development.
She suggested that SMC publish a comprehensive annual breakdown of parking-related finances, including total revenue collected, operating expenses and expenditure on road maintenance, public facility upgrades, beautification projects and other municipal services.
Wong said openness in financial reporting would strengthen public trust and demonstrate accountability in the council’s management of public funds.
“The public has the right to know where the money they pay goes and whether it is being used to improve the facilities and services that benefit the community,” she said.
