SUNGAI BULOH: Traders at the Brickfields Deepavali Bazaar, who faced delays in starting operations, will have their deposits refunded soon, says Deputy Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan.
He said Kuala Lumpur City Hall has replaced the earlier tents in Brickfields' Little India area with sturdier, more spacious and more comfortable ones to ensure the safety and convenience of both traders and shoppers.
Ramanan also clarified the misconception that he and the Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Ministry were directly involved in organising the annual bazaar, explaining that the bazaar was a collaboration between the city hall and Bank Rakyat.
"Our office only stepped in after the issues surfaced; we were not aware of the arrangements earlier. Once we were informed, I raised the matter during our post-Cabinet meeting.
"We are now working closely with the city hall to ensure everything runs smoothly. Those who previously commented that the tents would collapse should come and see for themselves that the new marquee tents are safe and secure," he told reporters after officiating the flag-off of the Deepavali Vanakam Madani nationwide food basket distribution here on Sunday (Oct 5).
The bazaar's tent setup had recently drawn criticism from traders, who claimed the structures were too small and of poor quality. Meanwhile, MIC deputy president Datuk Seri M. Saravanan had also described them as flimsy and unsuitable for the area's high-traffic main street.
Several tents also reportedly collapsed following heavy rain.
It was understood that traders paid RM2,500 for the temporary business space, which included a RM2,000 deposit and the balance for service and cleaning fees, in conjunction with the Festival of Lights celebration on Oct 20.
Several additional measures, including free shuttle services and designated parking areas, are expected to be announced soon to assist shoppers and improve traffic flow in the area. – Bernama
