A NEW self-service kiosk installed by the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) at the Tanjung Bungah Food Complex and Market recorded 99 transactions worth about RM11,000 within its first month of operation, showing an encouraging public response to the facility.
MBPP councillor Lee Seng Hwai said the kiosk, which began operations on July 3, allows residents to make assessment tax payments, settle compounds and carry out other council-related transactions without having to visit MBPP service counters.
He said the facility was introduced to provide greater convenience for residents, particularly those living in and around Tanjung Bungah.
Located at one of the area’s busiest community hubs, the kiosk enables market-goers and food complex patrons to complete council-related payments while carrying out their daily activities.
“The kiosk is especially useful for senior citizens and residents who may be less familiar or comfortable with conducting transactions through mobile applications or online platforms.
“The self-service facility complements MBPP’s weekly mobile counter service at the Tuesday night market, where residents can renew licences, settle compounds and make council payments,” he said.
All transactions at the kiosk are conducted cashlessly through QR code and other digital payment methods.
Lee said MBPP would continue monitoring usage and public feedback before deciding whether similar kiosks should be introduced elsewhere.
“We will study the response and assess the suitability of other locations before considering any expansion of the smart kiosk initiative,” he said.
Checks by Buletin Mutiara at the kiosk found that the response was positive, with a steady stream of market-goers using the facility to settle their bills.
Among them was retiree Siah, 67, who gave the kiosk a thumbs-up, describing it as a convenient service that saves both time and travel.
Siah said the kiosk was easy to use and appreciated having a payment facility located within the market, allowing residents to settle their council-related bills while doing their daily shopping.
“It is very convenient, especially for senior citizens like me. We can make our payments here without having to travel to MBPP offices,” he said.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Muhammad Iqbal Hamdan