By Christopher Lidom
KUCHING, July 19: Hawkers in 3rd Mile Maong Bazaar here can now operate their business legally from 1pm until 7pm daily at their designated location, starting today.
According to Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) chairman Lo Khere Chiang, previously, the hawkers have been operating illegally by occupying the car park in front of the shop lots in Maong Bazaar and their operation has caused problems to the public.
Lo, who is also Batu Kitang assemblyman, said the hawkers’ operation also caused dissatisfaction among the shop owners in the area and the council have received some complaints regarding the matter because they (hawkers) are operating without a license.
“Eventually, through the efforts from MPP councillor Amy Tnay, the hawkers, shopkeepers and market stall operators have come down to an agreement where they will be put under the management of a local non-governmental organisation (Sah Kong Kuching martial arts organisation).
“This will enable the hawkers to trade in a proper manner and legally, while at the same time following the standard operating procedures (SOPs) set,” he said.
Lo told this to reporters after witnessing the handing over of the hawkers’ master license to Sah Kong Kuching martial arts organisation chairman Jimmy Kung in a simple ceremony held at the 3rd Mile Maong Bazaar car park, behind the shop lots, today.
Meanwhile, Tnay said the hawkers issue, which has been dragging on for quite some time, has caused problems to the public, especially during festive season.
“That is why we try to look for a solution for everyone involved, and we have come out with a “test run” for it.
“So far, the “test run” has received a good response from the parties involved in the agreement, and as of now, a total of 15 traders are doing their business here, from 1pm until 7pm daily,” she added. — DayakDaily
