Dr Sim officially switches on the new fans. Chan is on his right.
KUCHING: A total of 76 new ceiling fans and 19 new wall fans have been installed at the Stutong Community Market.
Minister of Local Government Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian said the new fans were a vital part of Kuching South City Council’s (MBKS) continuous efforts to upgrade facilities for the comfort of traders and shoppers.
“The important thing is this, despite all these facilities, the rental fees for hawkers are still maintained to stimulate the economy and hopefully to address the cost of living,” he told a press conference after officially switching on the fans yesterday.
“The ministry this year will continue to allocate more funding for some of the bigger town or hawker centres like this wet market – basically it’s part of the lifestyle of people in Sarawak.”
Dr Sim said MBKS would also improve other facilities at the market such as increasing the number of parking spaces.
“Nowadays, if there are not enough parking spaces, business can be affected as people would go to another locality where it is convenient and where people can park,” he said.
Kuching South Mayor Datuk James Chan called on the public to patronise the Stutong Community Market.
“It is one of the cleanest in the country and it is commended by other local and foreign councils who came and visited the market,” he said.
“If you’ve never patronised the place, do come as the market is quite different compared to other markets in Kuching.”
He added that MBKS would work to upgrade facilities at other markets under its jurisdiction soon.
The supply and installation of the 76 ceiling fans cost RM19,559, while the 19 wall fans cost RM15,533.
Meanwhile, Dr Sim added that the Ministry of Local Government was working out a consistent and common council policy for food truck operators.
“The idea is for the younger generation to have the opportunity to operate and have their own businesses,” he said.