Sibu: The Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) has been urged to review the classification of several newly designated commercial parking zones following growing public dissatisfaction over higher monthly parking pass fees, while also expediting the implementation of its promised parking pass scheme for senior citizens.
Special Assistant to Sibu MP Oscar Ling Chai Yew, Irene Wong Lee Ting, said the P.212 Sibu Service Centre has recently received numerous complaints from business owners and employees affected by the rezoning exercise, which has resulted in monthly parking pass fees in several areas increasing to a standard rate of RM80.
The affected locations include Kampung Datu, Jalan Chengal, Sibu Town Square, and Sibu Town Square (Government), where parking passes previously cost between RM40 and RM60 before the areas were redesignated as commercial zones.
According to Wong, the increase has added to the financial burden faced by workers who rely on private vehicles for their daily commute, as well as small business operators already struggling with rising operating costs.
“Many employees had previously opted to park in lower-cost zones and walk to their workplaces to minimise expenses, but the rezoning has effectively removed that more affordable option,” she said.
She also noted that not every area now classified as a commercial zone reflects the same level of economic activity.
“In particular, businesses in Kampung Datu continue to experience slow customer traffic, raising questions over whether the higher commercial parking rates are justified,” she said.
Wong called on SMC to reassess the affected zoning classifications based on actual business activity, pedestrian flow, and commercial value to ensure parking policies remain fair and proportionate.
She also urged the council to immediately announce the implementation date, eligibility requirements, and application procedures for its RM40 monthly parking pass scheme for senior citizens.
“Although SMC had previously indicated the scheme would begin in July, no further details have been released, prompting enquiries from elderly residents and creating uncertainty among those hoping to benefit from the initiative,” she said.
