KUCHING – The Kuching South City Council (MBKS) has reaffirmed its commitment to improving public facilities with the successful completion of upgrade works at Kenyalang Park Market, finished ahead of schedule.
MBKS Mayor, Dato Wee Hong Seng, announced that the project site was officially handed over on 27 November, a week earlier than planned, after contractors completed the installation of all required facilities.
The upgrade involved the replacement of 728 old pedestal seats at a cost of RM105,640, ensuring greater comfort for traders and visitors.
Dato Wee highlighted that MBKS has consistently supported the continuity of public market businesses by maintaining rental rates without any increase since the market’s establishment.
“Since its establishment until now, the rental rate has never been increased and at the same time, the council bears a subsidy of almost RM1 million per year. This subsidy not only involves maintenance, but also aims to ensure that prices at each market and hawker centre remain affordable and can be enjoyed by all levels of society,” he said.
Kenyalang Park Market, which has served the community for more than 30 years, has undergone gradual upgrades based on available financial allocations.
Improvements include enhanced lighting and fan systems to provide a more comfortable environment for users.
Dato Wee explained that the initiative forms part of the “We Love Market” campaign, which encourages residents to return to public markets as community hubs offering quality food at affordable prices.
Looking ahead, MBKS plans to collaborate with the health sector to raise awareness of healthy eating. Proposals include displaying food calorie information, aligning with Kuching’s aspirations to become a smart city.
He added that this approach reflects MBKS’ slogan, “Your City, My City, Our City”, which aims to foster shared responsibility among Kuching citizens in maintaining vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable community spaces.
