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KOTA KINABALU: Seventy‑two small traders at Kepayan Square began shifting to a nearby temporary site this week to allow a RM2.4 million overhaul of the public market.

“We want to ensure their livelihood is protected while we create a safer, more comfortable space,” said Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick, who handed out canopies, tables and chairs to the traders on Tuesday.

The project is jointly financed by the Ministry of Local Government Development (KPKT) and Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) at RM1 million each, with Kapayan assemblywoman Datuk Jannie Lasimbang contributing RM400,000 from her constituency fund.

Jannie, who has pursued the upgrade since 2019, said the market “is more than business; it’s where people meet, share food and build connection.”

The renovation will add a roof, improved flooring and proper drainage, with work expected to last several months.