By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, Aug 23: The Sungai Apong Market, located on Jalan Sungai Apong, is set to receive a significant facelift as the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) begins the second phase of its market infrastructure upgrade project.
MBKS mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng revealed that the project, which has a contracted sum of RM113,825, began on Aug 15, 2024, and is anticipated to significantly enhance the facilities at the market, specifically the hawker centre.
“We have secured RM116,000 in federal funding for the project. It may not seem like much, but it will allow us to make a considerable difference in certain parts of the market,” he told reporters during a site visit to the Sungai Apong Market today.
He went on to say that the initial plan focused on roofing repairs, but after further assessment, it was decided to prioritise upgrading the hawker centre first due to its high patronage and ageing infrastructure.
The project, which includes installing a new ceiling funded by the council, was a response to feedback from the hawkers themselves.
“We engaged with the community to ensure that their needs were met. We don’t just build what we think is good for them; we build based on their feedback,” the mayor emphasised.
Wee also noted that this project is part of a broader initiative to improve markets across Kuching.
“We have already finished upgrades at Kenyalang Park Market and Petanak Central Market. After that, we upgraded the Bintawa Wet Market, and we are currently working on the Sungai Apong Market.
“We have also completed the upgrade of the Kueh Siak Hong Hawker Centre. We are considering improving the table and chairs at Kueh Siak Hong Hawker Centre now that it has been completed,” he said.
He further noted that the Sungai Apong Market infrastructure upgrade project is slated for completion by Oct 14, 2024, though there is optimism that it might finish ahead of schedule.
The mayor praised the contractors for their efficiency and hinted at future collaborations if they continue to perform well.
Additionally, Wee acknowledged the challenges of managing limited federal funding, noting that the council does its best with the resources available.
“We make full use of what we have and prioritise projects that will directly benefit the community,” he said.
He also assured that MBKS continues to subsidise market operations, maintaining affordable rental rates for hawkers to ensure the availability of affordable food for the community.
As improvements continue, Wee urged all Sarawakians to support the ongoing developments, emphasising the need for unity and cooperation.
“As Sarawakians, our basic responsibility is to love and support our State. Let’s work together for the benefit of all,” he said. — DayakDaily
