SANDAKAN: Plans to end operations at the early-morning market at the Sandakan Central Market car park after Feb 28 have triggered concern among public and traders.
However, former Karamunting Assemblyman Datuk George Hiew Vun Zin said it won’t amount to a full closure. It is part of a restructuring and replanning process.
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He said this after paying a visit with Karamunting Community Development Leader (PPM) Yap Hsiu Min on Municipal Council (MPS) President Walter Kenson.
According to George, MPS has in recent years actively implemented urban improvement efforts, particularly around the Central Market area, which has long faced traffic congestion and cleanliness issues.
“The proposal to reorganise the early-morning market was actually discussed earlier, including identifying a more suitable location such as Pasar Ramai-Ramai, to ensure traders can continue operating in a more orderly and comfortable environment,” he said.
He assured that MPS would not make any unilateral decisions, but engage with affected traders to hear their views and concerns.
“I hope all parties involved will remain patient and not misinterpret this matter, as it is part of renewal efforts.
“The early-morning market is not being abolished but will be reorganised to operate at a more suitable location,” he stressed.
George added that he had been directly involved in planning the market’s relocation while serving as the Karamunting Assemblyman.
Among the early proposals considered was relocating wholesale vegetable stalls to Pasar Ramai-Ramai to ease traffic congestion and improve cleanliness around the Sandakan Central Market.
He expressed full support for the renewal and innovation initiatives undertaken by MPS and urged all parties to view the issue from the long-term perspective of Sandakan’s urban development.
