KUCHING (Aug 3): Three individuals sustained minor injuries after a tagada amusement ride reportedly collapsed last night at the Kuching Festival site near Dewan Masyarakat MBKS.

Kuching South Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said the incident occurred around 9.40pm, and all three victims were treated on-site by Malaysian Red Crescent first aiders.

“On behalf of Kuching South City Council (MBKS), I wish to express our deepest concern and heartfelt apologies to those affected and their families.

“This is not something we take lightly. As mayor, I share the same shock and sadness that many of you feel. Our community’s safety is, and has always been, our top priority,” he said during a live broadcast on his official Facebook page this evening.

Following the incident, MBKS immediately instructed the contractor to shut down the entire fun ride area and called on the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) to conduct a thorough safety inspection of the rides.

He said it will remain closed until DOSH has thoroughly inspected and officially certified the safety of all the rides.

“Please be assured that prior to the opening of the fair, MBKS had put in place strict precautionary measures including requiring the amusement’s operator to obtain DOSH clearance and to provide valid public liability insurance.

“But even with these steps in place, this incident still happened, and for that, we are truly sorry.

“An investigation is now underway, and we are working closely with all relevant authorities to determine the cause. We will not compromise when it comes to safety, and any further action needed will be taken with full responsibility,” he added.

Addressing public concerns, he said refunds will be provided by the contractor for Tagada and Ferris Wheel ticket holders.

Refunds can be collected from Aug 4 to 6 between 5pm and 9pm at the amusement site’s ticketing counter.

“I humbly appeal to the public, please do not spread unverified information or speculate on the incident. Let’s not add fear or confusion during this time.

“We ask for your patience and trust as we manage this matter with full transparency and care.

“The Kuching Festival is a celebration of community, family, and joy and we are truly sorry that this incident has cast a shadow over that.

“As your mayor, I am personally committed to ensuring that we learn from this and do everything necessary to restore public confidence,” he added.

collapse Kuching Fest Food Fair safety precautions tagada amusement ride Wee Hong Seng