By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Aug 15: After 20 years, the Bintawa Hawker Centre is finally getting an over RM1 million facelift that will transform it into a more vibrant and comfortable gathering place for both traders and visitors.
Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng announced that the project, tendered at RM988,016 under Federal funding, will be supplemented by over RM100,000 from the Council for additional components.
The renovation includes the replacement of roofs, ceilings, drainage, drain covers, and structural work for both the hawker centre and the wet market area.
Upgrades will also be made to the stalls’ doors and windows, along with the installation of extended wash areas, a new plumbing system, kitchen sinks, and a grease interceptor.
“This site is officially handed over to the contractor today, with construction expected to take four months and completion scheduled at the end of this year,” he told reporters during a visit to the site today.
The entire centre has been temporarily closed since Monday (Aug 12) with hawkers offering food and beverage opting to take four months off, while wet market traders will temporary operate from the parking lot.
Wee explained that MBKS will set up canopies and lighting at the temporary site, where affected traders can start operating on Monday.
“I have spoken to the traders and hawkers, and they are satisfied with the planning. All issues have been resolved, and the upgrading work has commenced,” he said.
To alleviate the inconvenience, MBKS will waive rental charges for traders and hawkers from August to December 2024. Payments made will either be reimbursed or carried forward to next year.
Wee also criticised certain parties for creating negativity and stirring up unnecessary issues without contributing positively to the development.
“If they are unable to secure funding and contribute nothing to the project, they should at least help ensure the project is completed smoothly and on schedule so that the people can benefit.
“We should not create negativity and confusion by stirring up unnecessary issues that worry hawkers. Instead, we should focus on resolving issues and problems for the people,” he stated.
While MBKS values constructive suggestions, Wee emphasised the Council’s commitment to providing a conducive environment for traders to earn a living and contribute to the local economy.
He also disclosed that the Sungai Apong Hawker Centre is next in line for an upgrade. — DayakDaily
