By Aida Aziz
IPOH: Half of the traders at Gerbang Malam here have expressed their dissatisfaction regarding the unresolved roof facilities issue.
One of the traders, Anuar Mohamad, claimed that the Ipoh City Council (MBI) had previously stated that the shading facilities would be completed in the second phase, which was said to begin in June.
However, he noted that there has been no progress, and the affected traders still have to pay the same rent as those with shading.
“I, along with half of the other traders at Gerbang Malam, want this issue to be highlighted.
“The roof here is only partially constructed, while we all pay the same rent.
“I have been a trader here since 2005; Gerbang Malam opened in 2003,” he said to Ipoh Echo & Peraktastic.
He further explained that the roof or shading is only installed at the front and not throughout the entire area.
“According to MBI, this is a phased project. The problem now is that the continuation of the shading or roof, which was said to begin in June 2024, has not taken place, and only road repairs are being done.
“We want this issue to be resolved quickly; the roof is a priority for traders and visitors, especially during rain.
“We do not deny that the rental rates here are cheaper compared to other places, but the issue now is fairness, as traders without roof facilities have to pay the same as those with roofs,” he added, representing fellow traders facing the same plight.
He emphasized that Gerbang Malam is a major tourist area in Ipoh, and this issue should have been resolved long ago for the convenience of both traders and visitors.
Previously, MBI stated in a Facebook post that they are working to secure funding to continue Phase 2 of the Gerbang Malam shading project.
According to the statement, this is expected to begin in 2024, and the length of the additional shading will depend on the approved budget.
