Traders at Laman Selera MPAJ @ Ampang Jaya were relocated from Lorong Kerja Ayer Lama. — Filepic
A LARGE-SCALE exercise has begun to identify and register an estimated 2,000 small traders operating in Ampang Jaya, Selangor.
The initiative by Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ) aims to streamline data collection, regulate informal business activities and improve coordination and support for these traders.
MPAJ deputy president Hasrolnizam Shaari (pic) said the exercise was necessary due to the wide range of trader activities at various locations.
“We are seeing small businesses operating at the side of roads, in empty spaces or temporary setups.
“We want to streamline our inventory and data on these kinds of activities.
“It is not about singling out anyone but ensuring we have a complete and accurate understanding of what is happening on the ground,” he told StarMetro.
The exercise, which began this month, is expected to take between three and six months to complete.
MPAJ enforcement officers dismantling illegal stalls set up near the Ar-Ridhuan flats. — Courtesy photo
Hasrolnizam said the council was also taking the opportunity to review and refine existing business conditions under MPAJ’s purview.
“Some activities like static hawkers or temporary traders are allowed if they meet basic requirements – meaning they operate in suitable areas, maintain cleanliness and ensure safety,” he explained.
MPAJ is also planning to identify new locations for small businesses, especially to accommodate growing demand for their trade.
“Many of these businesses, such as food and beverage stalls, fill a need in the community.
“If we find that traders are aligned with current needs, we will assist them by arranging temporary licences or permits,” said Hasrolnizam.
“However, for operations that are found to be unsuitable or fail to meet basic requirements, MPAJ will adopt a soft approach by proposing relocation to more appropriate sites.
“Where activities are clearly inappropriate or pose a risk, we will proceed with enforcement action, which can include closure or seizure of goods if necessary,” he warned.
Separately, MPAJ continued to take enforcement action against illegal and unlicensed trading.
On May 26, the local council’s Enforcement Department carried out an integrated operation against unlicensed trading activities at a site near a hypermarket in Dataran Pandan Prima and an open space next to Flat Ar-Ridhuan.
Enforcement action near the hypermarket included the towing of nine vehicles and seizure of goods.
Authorities also cleaned the area and removed public obstructions.
At the site near the flat, two large tents were confiscated in the joint cleanup with MPAJ’s Urban Services and Health Department.
The local council also demolished illegal stalls in the grounds of low-cost flats in Taman Ukay Perdana, built without approval and operated by foreigners.
