Kota Kinabalu: City Hall (DBKK) aspires to provide more opportunities for small traders to do business in the city.
Its Mayor Datuk Seri Sabin Samitah said having more night markets in the city aligns with the wish of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to support traders and small shop owners across the country.
“We will provide more spaces for small traders to conduct business in the city as residents here have higher purchasing power compared to other areas.
“Renting shops or spaces in shopping malls would limit their chances due to the high rental costs,” he said after launching the Sunset Walk night market at Sabah International Convention Centre here (SICC).
Currently, there are seven night markets in the city.
During the national-day celebration on April 20 here, Anwar had said about 80 per cent of people would spend their money at more affordable eateries such as “warung” and small shops.
On the Sunset Walk night market on Fridays and Saturdays, Sabin highlighted its strategic location, offering views of the sunset, sea and islands while patrons enjoy street food from public vendors and SICC.
Asked on DBKK’s direction toward eliminating or minimising single-use plastics by 2030, Sabin said they initiated a campaign with retail shops last year.
“The campaign will continue in phases for traders to reduce plastic and polystyrene usage.
“We are discussing with stall operators to find mechanisms that don’t affect their businesses. It’s also a good suggestion for visitors to bring their own containers.”
