By Karen Bong
KUCHING, July 4: A total of 1,124 operators at markets and hawker centres under the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) are expected to benefit from a 50 per cent discount in rental charges under the Sarawakku Sayang Special Assistance (BKSS) 6.0.
This follows the Sarawak government’s announcement that rental reduction for eligible hawkers operating at markets and hawker centres owned by local authorities across the State.
Funded under BKSS 6.0, the special assistance seeks to ease the financial burden faced by traders affected by the wider economic impact of the West Asia crisis.
MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said the rental reduction will be implemented from April 16 to Dec 31, 2026.
He said the assistance would be extended to eligible traders who are actively operating at local authority-owned markets and hawker centres, with local authorities responsible for identifying qualified recipients and administering the programme.
Wee also assured traders who had already settled their rental payments for the applicable month that they would not miss out on the benefit.
“I would like to assure all eligible traders that those who have already paid their rental in full for the applicable month will continue to receive the benefit.
“The equivalent 50 per cent rental rebate will be credited (contra) towards their subsequent monthly rental payments, ensuring that every eligible trader receives the assistance provided by the Sarawak government,” he said during his ShallWeeTalk live session today.
In a press statement, Wee emphasised that the initiative reflects the Sarawak government’s continued commitment to supporting local businesses, safeguarding traders’ livelihoods and strengthening the resilience of the State’s economy amid global economic uncertainties.
He noted that markets and hawker centres remain important drivers of local entrepreneurship, providing employment opportunities and meeting the daily needs of communities.
“By reducing operating costs, this rental relief will provide meaningful financial support to traders, enabling them to continue operating their businesses with greater confidence and resilience,” he said.
Wee added that MBKS is committed to ensuring the smooth, transparent and efficient implementation of the initiative in accordance with guidelines established by the Sarawak government. — DayakDaily
