By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Jan 10: Durian sellers operating illegally within Kuching South City Council (MBKS) jurisdiction areas are advised to relocate to a seasonal fruit market set up near Mayor Song Swee Guan Park in Tabuan Jaya.
MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said while the council understands the need for vendors to earn a living, regulations must be followed to ensure fairness and public safety.
“In the last two weeks, we have been working to clear illegal hawkers selling durians. It’s durian season, and while we didn’t take immediate action, we issued three warnings before asking them to relocate to a designated area,” he said when met at MBKS building here today.
He mentioned that MBKS has received numerous complaints from shop owners about illegal sellers trading outside their premises and creating litter.
This, he added, is not fair to the business owners who comply with the regulations.
Wee stressed that MBKS’ actions aim to balance the needs of hawkers with maintaining order.
“We hope vendors understand that we are providing them with a proper place to trade. When we create a designated area, we expect them to follow instructions and relocate there,” he elaborated.
He acknowledged that moving to a new location might initially affect vendors’ clientele but believes that clustering fruit sellers in one area will eventually attract customers.
The council is also making improvements to the Tabuan Jaya site to create a more conducive seasonal fruit market.
“Priority will be given to local fruit operators, especially those selling seasonal fruits, to support local farmers. For imported fruits, we will evaluate how to accommodate them,” he said.
The mayor also issued a warning against illegal extensions by businesses, citing fire hazards and other risks.
“The council is committed to helping everyone, but actions must be guided by law and regulations. We cannot allow people to act as they please without consideration for the rules,” he concluded. – DayakDaily
