MELAKA TO CONTINUE HOLDING ICONIC BANDA HILIR BAZAAR

MELAKA, April 1 (Bernama) -- Melaka will continue to hold the Iconic Banda Hilir Bazaar during Ramadan in response to positive feedback from traders, buyers, and tourists.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh said the initiative is part of the state’s efforts to support petty traders seeking to boost their income during the fasting month while also attracting more tourists.

This popular Aidilfitri Bazaar, previously held on Jalan Hang Tuah, was relocated to Banda Hilir this year.

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"Although this is the first time the event is being held at this location, the response has been overwhelming, as Banda Hilir is a popular area for tourists. Visitors come throughout the year. We even allowed traders to begin their business seven days before Ramadan, from 3 pm to 3 am.

"Certainly, more improvements will be made for future editions to ensure the economic benefits are enjoyed not only by the bazaar traders but also by the trishaw pullers, who will attract more customers," he said.

He was speaking to the press after attending the Aidilfitri open house hosted by state Housing, Local Government, Drainage, Climate Change, and Disaster Management Committee chairman and Paya Rumput assemblyman Datu Rais Yasin at the Krubong Community Sports Complex today.

He added that the collaboration with the Melaka Historic City Council played a key role in the success of the Iconic Banda Hilir Bazaar. 

Meanwhile, Rais noted that the final selection process for traders is underway for the Up Town Paya Rumput commercial kiosks, which are set to begin operations after Hari Raya Haji.

"We have 30 available lots but received 389 applications. As a result, we are conducting a thorough selection process to ensure the Up Town project does not become a white elephant. The state government has made a substantial investment to ensure its success.

"More importantly, we want to ensure the RM3,000 financial aid and six months of free rental are not wasted, or worse, that traders abandon their businesses after the six-month period," he explained.

Commenting on the open house, which is expected to be attended by 20,000 guests, Rais said the event will continue to be a tradition in the area to promote unity among the diverse communities living there.

--BERNAMA