THE second phase of roof construction for Gerbang Malam along Jalan Dato Tahwil Azar is 85% complete, says Ipoh mayor Zamakhshari Hanipah.
He said the roof had been designed with adequate height clearance to avoid obstructing nearby commercial units and shoplots.
“The city council is committed to conducting an immediate survey of the night market site, to assess the current situation and ensure the needs of traders and visitors are taken into account in further planning,” he said.
It was previously reported that traders at the site had complained that part of the roof had yet to be put up, causing them to lose business during the rainy season.
Zamakhshari said the roof design would address this issue.
The first phase of the project, which involved building the roof over 185m of the night market area, was completed in April 2023 at a cost of RM2.9mil, with RM2.6mil coming from the Federal Government and an additional RM300,000 from the city council.
“Work on the second phase began on Oct 14 last year,” said Zamakhshari.
He noted that another 171m-long stretch was still without a roof, due to funding constraints.
He said MBI had submitted a RM4.25mil funding request to the Prime Minister’s Office and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture for the implementation of Phase 3.
“It includes the construction of additional roofing, the installation of industrial fans and improvements to pedestrian walkways.
“We will continue working to secure additional funds to complete the project for the well-being of traders and the comfort of visitors.”
He said MBI was optimistic the request would be approved, adding that “MBI is committed to overseeing this project comprehensively.”
Zamakhshari said MBI was focused on prioritising traders’ welfare, enhancing Gerbang Malam’s image as a tourist attraction and ensuring that every development project would benefit Ipoh residents.
“MBI deeply appreciates the patience and support of all parties in our efforts to build a more progressive and prosperous city,” he said.
Gerbang Malam is one of Ipoh’s key tourist attractions where small and medium-sized traders operate daily from 6pm to midnight.
