AN IDEA to transform underutilised areas around George Town to have businesses selling gold jewellery is being proposed, says Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
He said the proposal, described as a gold bazaar by the Penang Muslim League, was something that could be carried out by the local councils.
The idea, added Chow, was in line with ongoing efforts by Penang Island City Council (MBPP) and Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) to upgrade public markets along with hawker complexes to provide a more comfortable trading environment.
He also described the proposed gold bazaar as a potential new economic product and attraction for the state.
Penang, he said, remained committed to preserving the heritage and cultural identity of the Indian Muslim community, particularly those of Kadayannallur and Tenkasi descent.
Chow said he also welcomed proposals, including artists’ illustrations and improved lighting, to rejuvenate neglected areas and make them more conducive for hawkers, although some exemptions from local council by-laws may be required.
“With cooperation of local councils and various government agencies, upgrading works can be carried out progressively.
“In the next 10 to 15 years, we can be proud of the transformation of many hawker areas,” he said when closing the Agenda Pembangunan Ekonomi Muslim 2.0 (Apem) convention at a hotel in Penang.
Penang Muslim League president Datuk Seri Haja Najmudeen Kader, who was present, said the initiative to establish a Penang gold bazaar was part of broader efforts to strengthen small and medium enterprise (SME) development among Muslim entrepreneurs in the state.
He said a joint action committee has been formed to drive the initiative.
“Through this joint action committee, we can discuss design requirements and business needs, including the right mix of retailers at locations such as shopping centres,” he said.
The convention, meanwhile, brought government agencies, business players and entrepreneurs onto a single platform to provide more structured and hands-on support for SMEs, particularly Muslim entrepreneurs.
“The objective of Apem is to bring government agencies, business players and entrepreneurs together to work on SME development.
“SMEs face many challenges and need specific infrastructure to move to a higher and more competitive level,” he said.
Also present at the event was Penang Muslim League deputy president Datuk Dr Shahul Hameed Syed Mohamed.
