By: Zaki Saleh
IPOH: The construction project for Phase 1 of the Gerbang Malam structure on Jalan Dato Tahwil Azar, completed by the Ipoh City Council (MBI) in April last year, involved an area spanning 185 meters.
It was funded by the Perak state government, which received a special allocation from the Prime Minister in 2019 totalling RM2.6 million.
In a statement, MBI disclosed that the local authority had also allocated an additional cost of RM300,000 for the project.
However, part of the Gerbang Malam site, measuring 171 meters compared to the total commercial area of 356 meters, could not be implemented due to insufficient funding.
“The existing project only considered the provision of plug points for helicopter fans but did not consider the installation of these fans.
“Therefore, MBI has applied for funding for Phase 2 amounting to RM4.25 million from the Prime Minister’s Office and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture.
“This involves the construction of shading structures, electrical work including the installation of helicopter fans, and pedestrian walkway construction,” the statement said.
As approval for Phase 2 funding has not been received yet, MBI has requested funding from the Ministry of Housing and Local Government amounting to RM500,000.
This is to enable the implementation of at least two parts of the structure for this year.
“MBI hopes that the entire project funding can be approved according to the amount requested to enhance business activities in Gerbang Malam.
“This will further boost the economy of Ipoh city and increase tourist arrivals,” the statement clarified.
