ASTAKA Kampung Melayu, located in Air Itam, is not merely a food court but also a business hub and community gathering place that has been closely associated with residents for more than five decades.
Over time, the ageing condition of the building, which had become increasingly dilapidated and no longer met current needs, prompted various efforts to ensure that the facility would remain relevant and continue to provide comfort for traders and visitors alike.
After more than six years of continuous efforts, these initiatives have finally borne fruit, with Astaka Kampung Melayu now featuring a new look following an upgrading project worth approximately RM2.6 million, funded by the Penang Island City Council (MBPP).
Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng Soon Siang said the aspiration to upgrade the facility began in 2018 when the astaka was still under the supervision of the Implementation Coordination Unit (ICU), Prime Minister’s Department (JPM). According to him, various constraints at the time prevented the proposal from being realised.
“After the astaka was handed over to MBPP in 2022, I once again submitted improvement requests, including raising the matter in the State Legislative Assembly (DUN).
“These efforts were eventually realised at the end of 2024 through MBPP’s allocation,” he said when contacted.
He described the project as the most significant transformation ever carried out on Astaka Kampung Melayu throughout its more than 50-year history.
Elaborating further, he said the redevelopment process not only involved physical construction works but also took into account the views of various stakeholders.
According to him, his service centre, MBPP and traders held multiple engagement sessions to ensure that the design, unit specifications, rental rates and utility aspects met the needs of all parties. The project took about 18 months to complete, and throughout this period, discussions were held extensively with the traders.
“In fact, we also proposed that they form an association to ensure that the welfare of the traders could be managed in a more organised manner.
“Previously, traders operated individually, which made coordination more difficult.
“As a progressive step, agreement was reached with the establishment of the Astaka Kampung Melayu Traders Association, which has strengthened cooperation among traders,” he said.
According to him, about 20 traders are now operating at the astaka, offering a wide range of halal food and beverages to visitors.
“This is a 100 per cent halal astaka and is a popular choice among nearby residents, including those from Paya Terubong, Farlim, Padang Tembak and surrounding areas,” he said.
At the same time, he said the facility is currently still within its defect liability period, allowing MBPP to carry out any necessary improvements if required.
He also urged all parties to work together to maintain cleanliness and the facilities and infrastructure so that Astaka Kampung Melayu can continue to serve as a comfortable and conducive community hub.
Meanwhile, MBPP councillor Rohaizat Hamid said MBPP remains committed to upgrading and improving facilities at all astaka under its administration for the comfort of traders and visitors.
It is understood that Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow is scheduled to officiate the opening ceremony of Astaka Kampung Melayu on June 27.
Previously, the handover ceremony of the keys to the traders was held on Feb 9 this year, before the astaka officially began operations on April 1.
Pix by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi