Manjeet points to a sign saying that the Steamship Building will be closed on Jan 31, 2017. — Photo by Chimon Upon
KUCHING: Traders at the iconic Steamship Building in Kuching Waterfront are appealing to Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) to extend their stay.
A social activist, Manjeet Kaur, who spoke on behalf of the traders yesterday said the traders received a letter in mid December last year asking them to vacate the building by Dec 31. An appeal was made and SEDC provided leeway by extending the deadline to Jan 31 this year.
“They are small time traders who do not have the financial strength to find a new place so soon. Give them until March 31 to trade here (Steamship Building),” Manjeet said when met yesterday.
She added that even though there were no legal contracts between the traders and SEDC to use the place, SEDC should at least give the traders ample time to find a new and suitable location and come up with the necessary budget for the new shop rental.
“All the five traders are women who are trying to earn extra income for their families. They have been here for more than 10 years.”
A notice pasted on the wall said the traders had the option to move to Sarawak Plaza or Riverside shopping mall.
According to Manjeet, both areas would not auger well for their business as most tourists would head to the waterfront area in search of souvenirs and handicraft items.
Rental at the new area would also be too costly for them, she added.