AFTER operating for over 30 years, the Puchong Jaya morning market at Jalan Merak 2A, Bandar Puchong Jaya in Selangor, is getting a facelift.
Subang Jaya City Council (MBSJ) recently allocated RM600,000 for upgrades, including laying durable, anti-slip interlocking pavement slabs and repairing damaged roads and drains.
The project, which began on June 16 and set to benefit 127 stallowners, is expected to be completed by Oct 19.
State executive councillor and Kinrara assemblyman Ng Sze Han expressed hope that the market would become a model for the future.
“The market began operating in 1992 and this is its biggest upgrade in history.
“It is also a win-win situation as the reorganisation of stalls to more suitable locations isn’t just improving the traffic flow but should boost footfall as well.” he said.
Upgrading works will also see the relocation of the chicken and fish stalls to a new paved section.
“Market facilities must move with the times; they must focus on cleanliness and comfort to attract younger people,” Sze Han said at a press conference after a site visit with MBSJ councillor Ng Seow Chen and MBSJ Engineering Department director Dr Mohd Ariffuddin Kamari.
During the visit, Sze Han noted that blocked drains and general hygiene issues had persisted for years and were difficult to eradicate.
He said the solution required cooperation of both the community and traders.
Seow Chen echoed the call for local traders to look after the area, warning them not to throw rubbish or used cooking oil into the drains as this would cause a blockage.
She hopes that the upgrade will lead to the overall improvement of the market, but stressed that environmental hygiene needed the support of everyone.
“The city council will be taking a strict approach to its monitoring of environmental hygiene as well as action against offending traders,” she said.
The morning market site also serves as a public carpark after the market closes at noon.
