Ampang’s test pasar malam to serve as model nationwide

Zuraida Kamaruddin says inconsistencies in management of night markets have caused problems related to garbage, traffic congestion and disturbance. (Bernama pic)

KUALA LUMPUR: The pasar malam (night market) guidelines implemented at the Keramat Permai site in Ampang is set to serve as a model for night markets across the country, says Housing and Local Government Minister Zuraida Kamaruddin.

She said the guidelines would standardise the management of night market activities in all of Ampang as well as other locations.

“Prior to this, the management of night markets adopted by-laws of the local authorities in the respective states.

“The inconsistencies have caused various problems related to garbage, traffic congestion, and disturbance,” she told reporters after launching the guidelines here today.

The guidelines which were produced as part of a study conducted since March this year will be gradually expanded to 31 night market sites in Ampang, she said, adding it will be implemented nationwide beginning 2021.

Zuraida said the guidelines among others involve the selection of locations to avoid traffic congestion, sales zones based on category of goods sold, electricity and water supply, as well as waste management.

“After this, no more generators will be used as all the sites will be utilising LED lights. For the Keramat Permai site, the government has allocated over RM100,000 for fixing electrical cables and water taps for 250 sites and 131 traders,” she said.

Zuraida said a new penalty scheme would also be introduced where traders could have their business licence suspended for a month if they failed to keep their site clean. - FMT