KOTA KINABALU: The State Government has assured the public that the restoration of the Kota Kinabalu Community Hall has not been neglected.
Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin said the Sabah Heritage Council and Sabah Museum Department has been working closely with Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK), the authority responsible for the building, to ensure that the restoration is undertaken properly and in accordance with heritage conservation requirements.
“As the Community Hall is a protected heritage site, its restoration cannot be treated as an ordinary building repair.
“All works must comply with the Sabah Heritage Enactment 2017 and appropriate conservation principles to safeguard its original architecture, historical integrity and heritage value,” said Jafry.
The Sabah Museum Department has advised DBKK on the required technical documentation, scope of works and restoration methodology, he said.
The project cost must subsequently be determined based on these conservation requirements, he said.
DBKK is currently in the process of applying for the necessary funding to undertake the restoration works, he added.
“The State Government understands the public’s concern and appreciates the strong interest in safeguarding this important Kota Kinabalu landmark.
“Our priority is not simply to repair a building, but to restore it correctly — preserving its history, character and heritage value for future generations,” said Jafry.
He assured that the ministry will continue to work closely with the Sabah Heritage Council, Sabah Museum Department and DBKK to facilitate the necessary processes and ensure that the restoration moves forward responsibly. – Wu Vuide
Jafry said priority is not simply to repair a building, but to restore it correctly — preserving its history, character and heritage value for future generations.
