MPP thanks Batu Lintang rep for highlighting issue at Maong Bazaar Posted on 18 Feb 2015

 

KUCHING: The decision by Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) in accommodating hawkers to trade at Maong Bazaar, or the Old Third Mile Bazaar, is to offer shoppers ‘more outlets to buy from’ in view of this Chinese New Year.

Chairman Lo Khere Chiang said the arrangement for hawkers at Maong Bazaar was similar to that in MJC Batu Kawah New Township and Kuching City Mall Commercial Centre.

“We let a company to manage the hawkers. The company has also promised to have Rela personnel manage the traffic flow. They seem to be doing a good job,” he told The Borneo Post yesterday.

Lo, who is also SUPP Kota Sentosa chairman, was responding to Batu Lintang assemblyman See Chee How, who in his column in the last thesundaypost pointed out the ‘chaotic parking’ at Maong Bazaar market due to certain ‘selfish and inconsiderate’ traders – whom he nicknamed Mr Big and Mr Alphard – who indiscriminately set up tents at the carpark, causing traffic and parking problems there.

“As for the orange seller (Mr Alphard), I have to admit that he was wrong. He rented three parking lots from MPP but instead, his tents occupied five lots. His tents were also a little too big.”

Lo said although MPP had every right to take down the tents should the hawkers breach the terms, it decided to give a little flexibility as it wanted to avoid dissatisfaction among the traders during this festive season.

“(When we give a little flexibility), it doesn’t mean that I’m weak or letting the public to climb over my head. The decision was purely on consideration to allow hardworking individuals to do business in conjunction with Chinese New Year,” he stressed.

Nevertheless, Lo said he would advise the council administration on sending warning letters to errant traders after the celebration, sternly reminding them not to repeat such offence again.

“If they failed to comply, MPP would not allow them to trade at Maong Bazaar in the future.”

Lo also took the opportunity to thank See for pointing out the matter in his column, adding: “Instead of blatantly blaming MPP for not upholding the law, he (See) had actually provided constructive advice to the council. I appreciate that very much.”

 

Borneo Post: Posted on 18 Feb 2015