Better amenities for local marts: Ministry
Published on: Wednesday, August 21, 2019
By: Ahmad Apong
BEAUFORT: The Local Government and Housing Ministry has reminded all local authorities to provide and maintain good amenities in general markets in their respective district.
Citing the situation here, Deputy Chief Minister cum Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Jaujan Sambakong said there are many local traders who are selling their products on the sidewalk.
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“They should at least have a good facility for their businesses…moreover, their self-made tables to display their products were also poorly arranged,” he said after visiting the market, here, Sunday.
“I want Beaufort District Council to provide tables for the vendors and do not let them make their own tables.
“That is why the District Councils in the State had been given the power to rectify such situations.”
He added, based on his previous visits to several general markets, he found that there are still some local authorities who are complacent and had yet to maintain good administration.
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“For example, when I visited the Ranau general market, there are many empty tables due to administrative problems,” he said.
Jaujan said local authorities should ensure that the cleanliness of markets are well-maintained apart from equipping them with basic facilities, like electricity and water supplies.
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“I was made to understand that the district frequently experiences water disruptions.
“As such, the district council should take the necessary measures such as providing water tanks near the market so that it would be easier for the vendors to use them.”
He also assured that the government is working to resolve the water issue in the district.
Jaujan also suggested the local authorities to provide a cold storage facility for fishmongers.
“The ministry would like to turn general markets as a main shopping spot for the public as the vegetables and fruits sold there are fresher and cheaper.
“We could also help local traders to enhance their income,” he said.
In Western countries, he said, the best place to shop is the general markets.
“And the markets there are clean and beautiful as well as not smelly which make them a favourite place to visit by the public.
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