KOTA KINABALU: Sandakan will soon enjoy cheaper reserved parking, with the Sandakan Municipal Council (MPS) set to reduce the monthly rental rate from RM500 to RM300 starting April 1.
The decision comes after months of public complaints and appeals from local elected leaders and business groups.
The fee, initially raised to RM500 in April last year, was implemented under the Uniform Parking Space By-law passed by the state government in 2023.
MPS president Walter Kenson said the council began receiving feedback from the community shortly after the rate was enforced.
Following that, he was approached by Karamunting assemblyman George Hiew Vun Zin and Sandakan Chinese Chamber of Commerce president Chia Tet Foh, who relayed concerns from local businesses and residents.
"I took it seriously. I called a meeting with our legal team and asked them to check whether I had any discretion under the by-law to adjust the fee," said Walter at a press conference held in Sandakan town on Saturday.
Walter confirmed the new rate will take effect on April 1 — exactly one year after the original increase — and will apply to new applications.
Those who have paid but not used their bays will receive an adjustment, but no refunds will be issued for bays already in use.
