IPOH: Anyform of illegal subletting, whether it involves MyKiosk units, Ramadan bazaar lots, or stalls at markets under the jurisdiction of the local government is strictly prohibited, says Sandrea Ng (pic).
The state housing and local government committee chairman said if such cases occur, the public are urged to report them to the respective local authorities, so that enforcement action could be taken.
Ng said these spaces are meant for those genuinely conducting business, and not for profiteering.
“So we will not take this issue lightly, and if we receive reports on such cases, action will be taken,” she said.
Ng also acknowledged that despite various efforts taken, illegal street trading still existed along roadsides, and junctions.
She said while the authorities understood the need to earn a living, safety remains a top priority.
“We do not permit trading at intersections or roadsides because of safety and traffic regulations.
“Thus MyKiosk units were introduced to create a better alternative with legal business zones.
“Once traders are relocated, the local authorities must monitor the respective areas to ensure other traders don’t occupy the unsafe locations,” she added.
She also said that there is a limit to how many businesses a location could support before it becomes overcrowded and unprofitable.
“If someone wants to start a business, we urge them to engage with their local authority. We are open to helping, but proper procedure must be followed,” she said.
On another issue, Ng said the authorities were aware of cases of abandoned vehicles in residential and industrial areas.
She said these abandoned or unused vehicles left along public roads, including in industrial areas and residential neighborhoods where sometimes workshops operate illegally.
“The core challenge is that, legally, even abandoned vehicles still have registered owners.
“Local authorities must follow due legal process before removing them. This can delay action, even after notices are issued,” she said.
Ng said the matter was raised at last year’s Housing and Local Government Ministry convention where councils shared best practices.
She said they were exploring more efficient ways to resolve this, ideally through better coordination and updated regulations so these vehicles do not become long-term eyesores or hazards.
“We understand the public’s frustration and are committed to finding a more comprehensive solution, one that respects property rights but also protects community welfare and urban cleanliness,” she added.
