IPOH: The Ipoh Central Market will be upgraded to become a landmark similar to the Kuala Lumpur Central Market, says Nga Kor Ming.
The Housing and Local Government Minister said there is a RM15mil allocation for the project, which he hopes will begin soon.
He said the market was once the main shopping destination for city residents.
“In the past, the well-known Kinta Shopping Centre was located there, and the market indeed had its attractions, especially with its strategic logistic position in the city centre.
“With the capabilities of our mayor, we hope Ipoh Central Market can become another landmark, similar to the Central Market in Kuala Lumpur,” he told reporters after visiting the upgraded Canning Garden market here on Sunday (Jan 26).
Earlier, he visited the Pasir Pinji market to monitor the progress of construction of the new building.
Nga said the RM16mil Pasir Pinji market is the first market nationwide with gold status under the Green Building Index.
He noted that an allocation had also been approved for the Pasir Putih market that was razed by fire last year, while the Buntong market would also be upgraded.
Nga also urged the 156 local authorities nationwide to submit applications for the upgrading and rebuilding of wet markets.
He said this was needed for markets with over half a century of history as they need to transform.
“In addition to boosting the local economy, markets can also contribute to our tourism industry, which has now become the country’s second-largest source of income.
“The ministry will collaborate with the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry to promote several markets nationwide.
“We will list markets that are suitable for tourists to visit, as there are many markets that are over 50 years old with unique and interesting features that can be highlighted as tourism products,” he added.