IPOH: RM180mil has been allocated to build 12 new central markets nationwide next year with the Ipoh Central Market alone getting RM15mil to prepare for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, says Nga Kor Ming
The Housing and Local Government Minister said all new markets worth RM10mil or more were required to be built via an open tender process for the best outcomes.
“This is to ensure that our markets will look good and attractive. I want to make the markets as tourist attractions,” he said after opening the Hospital Road Community Service Centre on Friday (Oct 25).
As part of preparations for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, he added that the ministry will spend RM54mil to improve or upgrade food courts nationwide.
Commenting on Ipoh Central Market, he said the ministry intended to overhaul it into a community centre for both locals and tourists to enjoy.
"Last year I provided RM1mil to upgrade the washrooms and the flooring but it is not enough.
"I hope that the Ipoh City Council will complete the market upgrading works in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026," he said
In the same spirit, Nga also said that Little India, Gerbang Malam and the Octagen hub will also be made as Ipoh's cultural heritage sites.
"I have discussed with Ipoh mayor Datuk Rumaizi Baharin about this. I also want to make Little India as well known as Concubine Lane
"This further shows the government's commitment where diversity is our strength, cultural diversity is our privilege," he added.
Nga added that Jalan Hospital flats will be upgraded with a RM600,000 allocation for the 12 blocks there.
"The upgrading works will begin next week after the Deepavali festivities and based on the contract it is expected to be completed on Dec 29.
"There will be installation of new paintings and new handrails,” Nga said, adding that tenders have been awarded.
"Many blocks here are old and they will be given a new look," he said.
