SANDAKAN: Several issues have surfaced following the relocation of the Early Morning Market from the Sandakan Central Market car park to the Bandar Ramai-Ramai Wholesale Market, which officially began operations on May 1.
Karamunting Assemblyman Alex Wong said complaints were raised by traders, customers and residents during his visit to inspect the market conditions on the first day of operations.
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Among the main concerns highlighted was the lack of lighting in the area, which he said posed safety risks and could potentially increase crime concerns, particularly during night-time operations.
“Insufficient lighting creates safety concerns, in addition to potentially increasing the risk of crime, especially at night,” he said.
Wong also said transport accessibility to the wholesale market had become a challenge for visitors.
“Some customers informed us that they need to use two to three types of transport to reach the area, which complicates travel and affects visitor numbers,” he added.
In addition, Wong said traders had complained about the disorganised stall arrangement at the new location.
“It is understood that some traders have yet to obtain suitable spots, meaning business operations cannot be carried out optimally,” he said.
According to him, the situation is further compounded by the limited variety of goods currently available at the market, as many stalls are only selling vegetables.
“The lack of fruit stalls and other products limits consumer choices and reduces the attractiveness of the area,” he said.
As a result, traders and visitors are hoping the authorities will take proactive measures to improve basic facilities, reorganise the market layout and enhance accessibility to ensure business sustainability and public comfort.
Previously, the Sandakan Municipal Council (MPS) announced that the relocation to Bandar Ramai-Ramai Wholesale Market would provide traders with better facilities and several incentives, including lower hawker fees and extended operating hours.
To encourage traders to relocate, MPS is allowing wholesale operations from 9pm to 9am, while retail traders are permitted to operate until midday.
Facilities provided at the site include trading tables, lighting, fans, public toilets, rubbish bins and more spacious unloading areas.
The relocation initiative forms part of efforts to improve markets and tamu (open-air markets) in Sandakan to become more organised, while promoting a cleaner and more tourist-friendly city image.
