KUCHING, March 2: The stakeholders and traders at the 7th Mile Market must be updated on the progress of the RM400,000 renovation, Michael Kong tells the Padawan Municipal Council (MPP).
The special assistant to Sarawak Democratic Action Party (DAP) chairman Chong Chieng Jen said many traders were still in the dark about the progress of the renovation work.
“Despite the announcement of the upgrading works which is much welcomed, it is deeply regretted that there is no further notice or information from MPP.
“During our recent engagement with the traders at 7th Mile Market, one of the many concerns was the uncertainty as to the implementation of the works.
“Till today, none of the traders are aware of anything other than what was reported in the press,” said Kong in a statement today.
He opined that MPP’s lack of stakeholder engagement would create anxiety while the traders are left guessing over how their livelihoods would be affected by the planned renovation.
Kong also noted that he had since written to MPP to seek a public discussion between MPP and all stakeholders so that a mutually acceptable plan for the renovation can be agreed upon.
“The government and its relevant departments, agencies and/or councils are there to help the people. As such, it is incumbent on them to be more upfront and transparent with the public to create a more inclusive society.
“The old ways of doing things unilaterally without any public engagement and which leaves the people in the dark should be a thing in the past,” said Kong. — DayakDaily
