Some of you may have noticed this if you recently passed by the Round Tower – extension works on the outside of this gazetted heritage building. Many members of SHS and the broader Kuching community have brought it to our attention, expressing their shock and displeasure over what they consider an unwelcome and insensitive addition to a beloved heritage structure.

The 150 year old Round Tower is apparently being converted into a cafe/restaurant. SHS is not against the adaptive reuse and repurposing of our built heritage. However such structural additions which can damage the walls of the building are clearly prohibited in the Sarawak Heritage Ordinance. Such additions also impact the integrity and authenticity of our heritage asset.

SHS has already brought this to the direct attention of the relevant government agencies and we await their action to resolve the issue.

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