By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, Sept 20: The long-anticipated upgrade to Sungai Apong Market on Jalan Sungai Apong has been completed and handed over to the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) today, a month ahead of the original schedule.
MBKS mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng expressed his satisfaction with the early completion of the project, which was initially slated for completion by mid-October.
“The renovation work was completed earlier than expected, allowing the traders to resume their operations as soon as possible,” he said, emphasising the importance of fast-tracking the project to benefit local vendors.
The mayor spoke with reporters after the contractor handed over the market to MBKS today at the Sungai Apong Market here.
Wee also highlighted additional enhancements beyond the contractual scope, such as the installation of a new water supply system, kitchen tabletops, and stainless steel basins.
“The space has been completely transformed, offering a fresh, inviting atmosphere for people to enjoy their meals.
“We’ve installed stainless steel basins, modern water taps, updated kitchen tabletops, added new tiling, and chosen vibrant colours to bring lively energy to the environment.
“This is only the first step; there is much more to do. We will continue to follow up and bring in vendors to begin their operations. We also prepared new signage, and the city council will cover the renovation costs,” he explained.
He further called on the market vendors to maintain affordable pricing, acknowledging the challenges faced by the community.
“The market’s proximity to the city should not inflate prices. We want to ensure that everyone, including nearby workers, enjoys reasonable rates, which aligns with MBKS’ subsidy initiative.”
Additionally, Wee emphasised that the council doesn’t just ‘talk but gets the job done’, ensuring that the facilities meet the needs of both vendors and consumers.
He also noted that the market was ready to resume operations after final touch-ups, with traders eager to return and start serving the community once again.
The completion of Sungai Apong Market marks another step forward in MBKS’s ongoing efforts to upgrade public facilities across Kuching.
Wee assured that similar projects would follow, with the next two targets being the Bintawa We Market and the Kenyalang Park Market.
MBKS deputy mayor Dato Dr Zaiedi Suhaili was also present. — DayakDaily
