By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Nov 1: Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen has proposed that the Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) offer a subsidy to hawkers and traders at the 3rd Mile Market to offset income loss, as another closure for rectification work may impact their livelihoods.
This proposal came after the newly installed epoxy-coated flooring at the market began to peel off just one week after completion, necessitating its complete removal and further repairs.
Expressing disappointment over the quality of the work, Chong, who is also Democratic Action Party (DAP) Sarawak chairman, emphasised that the council owes a response to the affected traders whose livelihoods depend on the market.
“Bear in mind that during the previous renovation and upgrading period, these small-time traders halted business for 10 days, with some temporarily relocated.
“Their sales were impacted with the expectation of returning to a more conducive environment,” he said during a live social media session while visiting the market today.
Chong noted traders’ concerns, particularly their worry that another closure might be necessary for repairs.
“With Chinese New Year just three months away, some traders have suggested that the rectification works begin then, as many of them will be on break.
“These traders rely on daily earnings, and a forced pause would mean no income for that period,” he stressed.
Chong pledged to bring these issues to MPP’s attention and follow up on the matter.
Given that the RM300,000 project was funded by the Malaysia Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT), he also urged the council to report the flooring failure to the Ministry, along with a sustainable rectification plan to create a safer, more reliable environment for the 3rd Mile Market businesses.
Yesterday, MPP chairman Tan Kai explained that the anti-slip epoxy flake coating on the ground floor had begun peeling due to water seepage, which weakened the bonding beneath the surface.
He acknowledged that the epoxy material was unsuitable for flooring and confirmed that payment to the contractor would be withheld until repairs are completed.
The contractor has been instructed to remove the existing coating and propose a new rectification method to MPP for approval.
This repair initiative is part of a larger improvement project aimed at enhancing safety for both visitors and vendors. The new coating was initially intended to provide additional grip, reducing slip risks in wet areas. — DayakDaily
