PENANG is set to unveil its first-of-its-kind transformation of a wet market into a hypermarket-style concept.
Constructed in the 1990s to serve the community, the Bayan Baru wet market is currently undergoing a significant makeover.
Speaking to Buletin Mutiara, Bayan Baru MP Sim Tze Tzin said the market has not undergone any major changes for over 30 years.
“We are extremely thankful to the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) for spearheading the initiative to upgrade the Bayan Baru wet market.
“We recognise the necessity of refurbishing the market to stay competitive amidst the presence of various hypermarkets in the vicinity. To maintain its competitiveness, it is time for us to refurbish the market similar to those hypermarkets.
“The upgrading process consists of three phases. The first phase will accommodate the fishmongers, followed by the inclusion of the poultry, vegetable, and pork traders in the second phase.
“We have yet to decide on the third phase. The completion of the first phase is expected to be the end of this month,” he said.
The cost for the first phase is RM1.3 million, while the second phase requires RM 3.3 million. However, the cost for the final phase has yet to be decided.
MBPP is funding the expenses, while Sim has allocated 30% of its parliamentary allocation towards the project.
As the upgrading works for the first phase are being carried out, Sim said the fishmongers are operating their businesses at makeshift stalls near the market premises.
“They will move into the market once the works are completed,” he said, adding that the air ventilation, walls, and drainage system would see overhaul changes.
Sim stressed the importance of transitioning the market into a ‘dry’ style of market for the convenience of market-goers.
“We have engaged with various stakeholders to gather their input before proceeding with the upgrading works,” he said.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Law Suun Ting