MBPP cracking down on vehicles blocking traffic, endangering bazaar visitors
Congestion at Ramadan bazaars is inevitable but Penang Island City Council (MBPP) will take a tough stance against parked vehicles that obstruct traffic or endanger pedestrians.
Mayor Datuk A. Rajendran said, “Ramadan bazaars are major crowd-pullers.
“We cannot avoid traffic congestion entirely but we can reduce it through better cooperation from the public.”
He advised visitors to park further away and walk rather than competing for limited spots near the bazaar entrance.
“If possible, come in a group to minimise the number of vehicles.”
He said MBPP could choose to impose strict perimeter controls but this might create other complications.
“We are taking a flexible approach. Enforcement will focus on vehicles that obstruct traffic or are parked in an unsafe manner,” he said while emphasising public cooperation as a key factor.
He was speaking to reporters after opening the Lebuh Queen Ramadan bazaar and visiting some of the stalls.
He also warned that the city council would not compromise on foreign nationals operating or cooking at Ramadan stalls.
He said enforcement officers would be keeping an eye on 27 Ramadan bazaars, including Lebuh Queen, to ensure compliance with the rules.
“As in previous years, enforcement action will be taken.
“We want to ensure that stall owners are present.
“We only allow foreign workers to assist local traders at Ramadan bazaars, but not to cook or operate the stalls.
“We are exercising some tolerance by allowing foreign workers to serve as assistants to ensure the smooth running of the bazaars.”
Rajendran added that MBPP would be conducting regular stall inspections with the Penang Health Department.
“This is to ensure the environment remains clean and safe for visitors.”
Started 23 years ago, the Lebuh Queen Ramadan bazaar is among the oldest in Penang.
Organised by Penang Muslim League, this year it features 20 small-scale traders offering everything from nasi biryani, murtabak to traditional kuih.
Also present were Penang Muslim League president Datuk Seri Najmudeen Kader, deputy president Datuk Shahul Hameed Syed Mohamed and Lebuh Queen Ramadan bazaar acting organising chairman Dr Noorul Redzuan Mahboob Ali.
