By Dayangku Hidayatul
KUCHING, Feb 19: The Stutong Ramadan Bazaar, featuring 160 stalls, has drawn multiracial crowds and is widely regarded as the best in Kuching due to its systematic layout, affordable prices and high hygiene standards.
Deputy Minister for Energy and Environmental Sustainability Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni said the bazaar is more than a yearly tradition, serving as a platform for families and communities to gather while boosting vendors’ socio-economic prospects.
“The prices are reasonable. In fact, they are lower compared to many other places. Rental here is among the most affordable at only RM250 for one month.
“In other locations, rental can exceed RM400 and in some cases even go beyond RM1,000. This lower rental helps vendors keep their prices competitive,” he said when officiating the bazaar held at the parking area of Stutong Community Market here today.
Dr Hazland added that other bazaars in Sarawak could learn from the success of the Stutong Ramadan Bazaar, crediting Kuching South City Council (MBKS) for ensuring smooth operations, cleanliness and food safety.
However, participation demand exceeded available space.
“We were unable to accommodate all applicants. There were more than 300 applications submitted, but we only have 160 stalls available.
“This indicates strong demand and shows there is clear potential to expand the Stutong Ramadan Bazaar in the future,” he added.
Also present were MBKS mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng, MBKS deputy mayor Dato Zaeidi Suhaili, MBKS councillor Othman Bujang and MBKS deputy city secretary Zuraida Idris.
— DayakDaily
