The Kuching North City Hall (MBKS) and Kuching South City Council (DBKU) have announced that Pay and Go Sdn. Bhd. has been appointed as the Smart Parking System solution provider and operator in their council areas, starting operations in January 2026. with a trial run running from November 1st, 2025 to December 31st, 2025.
The appointment follows a Request for Proposal (RFP) process, with selection based on technical capability, operational experience, and financial proposal. The trial phase of the system will begin on 1 November 2025, coinciding with the expiry of the previous parking concession held by Kuching City Parking System Sdn. Bhd.
The new concession period is 10 years, with an optional 5-year extension subject to performance review and mutual agreement.
The Smart Parking System aims to modernize and digitalize parking management, improving user convenience, enforcement efficiency, and revenue collection, supporting Sarawak’s Smart City and Digital Economy initiatives.
Smart Parking System Features:
- Mobile app with GPS for parking registration, payment, and time extension.
- Handheld devices, QR-coded parking notices, and license plate recognition (LPR) cameras installed on enforcement e-bikes and vehicles.
- Real-time data collection for operational planning and dispute management.
- Pre-payment feature for automatic deduction upon plate scanning by enforcement officers.
- Kiosks for debit card payments, ensuring accessibility for non-app users.
- Reminder notifications for outstanding payments via the mobile app.
- Parking rates remain unchanged, including season and reserved parking options.
- Pay&Go’s new Elderly Easy Payment (EEP) allows seniors aged 60 and above to enjoy hassle-free street parking with no app or kiosk—just drive, park, and go.
Broader Impact:
- Promotes cashless and contactless payments for convenience.
- Enhances enforcement efficiency with real-time monitoring and analytics.
- Improves transparency and accountability in revenue management.
- Provides valuable data insights for urban mobility and planning.
The MBKS and DBKU, together with the Ministry of Public Health, Housing and Local Government and Sarawak Multimedia Authority, will closely monitor the trial phase to ensure a smooth transition, minimal disruption, and effective public communication. Public awareness campaigns will guide motorists on registration and usage procedures.
Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian highlighted that only one app is needed to access parking spaces across MBKS, DBKU, and local malls, eliminating the hassle of managing multiple apps. He also added that if the app performs well, the Pay & Go digital parking system could expand globally, bringing the solution to more cities beyond Malaysia.
This initiative highlights Sarawak’s commitment to smart city solutions, innovation, and the development of local technology, benefiting both residents and local authorities.
