KUCHING, Nov 17: Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen has written to Deputy Finance Minister II, Steven Sim Chee Keong to request the setting up of a Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN) branch outlet or any other banks in 10th Mile Bazaar Kuching here.
In the letter, Chong said he had received numerous requests from the business sector and the residents in and around 10th Mile Bazaar Kuching for BSN or any other commercial bank to set up a branch in the Bazaar to facilitate banking transactions.
At the moment, there is not a single bank operating a branch in 10th Mile Bazaar.
“Many years ago, there was a BSN branch in the Bazaar but it has closed down. Since then, the traders, hawkers and residents in the 10th Mile Bazaar and all the villagers nearby have been inconvenienced when it comes to doing banking transactions.
“The nearest bank is situated at the Kuching 7th Mile Bazaar. Though the distance may not seem far between 7th Mile to 10th Mile, but the traffic jam is horrendous and during peak hour, it may take more than half an hour to travel one-way from 10th Mile to 7th Mile and the lack of parking spaces at the 7th Mile Bazaar makes matters worse.
“Given the demographics and the growing economic activities in the area, I strongly believe that the 10th Mile Bazaar has now developed sufficiently for BSN or any other banks to set up a branch there,” Chong wrote. — DayakDaily
