PROPOSING COMMITTEE: Lai (seated third right), Lee (seated second right) and the organising committee in a photo call at the meeting.
MIRI: Miri City Council (MCC) is looking into setting up a night market in the city centre to inject life and vibrancy into the old central business district.
Mayor Lawrence Lai said the market would be set up along Brooke Road in between Central and Unity Markets.
“The city centre is somewhat dead at night after the night market ceased operation in early 2007. Thus, we are looking forward to a revival of such a market to bring life into the area,” he stated when chairing a meeting to discuss the proposal yesterday.
Lai said the market would operate every Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
Operators will not be charged during a three-month trial period.
It is proposed that the market be officially opened on Aug 30 in conjunction with the Merdeka Day celebration.
PROPOSED NIGHT MARKET: The site of the proposed night market along Brooke Road in between Central and Unity Markets as well as around Yu Lan Plaza.
To date, the council has received more than 100 interested applications to operate at the night market.
Following the good response, the council has decided to add to the 66 stalls on offer.
However, stalls are not allowed to sell barbecued food items which would produce thick smoke but simple barbequed items like chicken wings are allowed.
“Apart from providing an avenue for traders to earn some extra income, the market will also be a good place for family outings and to meet friends.
“This night market would later become another attraction for tourists and visitors,” Lai said.
Also present at the meeting were political secretary to the chief minister councillor Suzanne Lee and the organising committee.