The area for fishmongers was the first to be upgraded at the Bayan Baru Market Complex. — Photos: LIM BENG TATT/The Star
All the 36 fishmongers there now have new countertops and functional workspaces to showcase their seafood. Tan said the plan was to create a more spacious market and conducive shopping environment with a systematic layout. Fishmonger Ooi Beng Peng said he was pleased with the additional space behind their counters, as it allowed them to place tables and containers there.“Previously, market traders often had to set up tables outside their stalls, creating a messy environment and making it difficult for shoppers to move.”“The market is much nicer now. The new design has really made a difference.
Penang Island City Council funded RM3.6mil while Sim allocated RM400,000 from his parliamentary allocation for the project. The project also received RM1mil from Housing and Local Government Ministry.“MBPP liked the idea we proposed. An allocation was given but it was not enough, so I chipped in with my constituency funds,” said Sim.
Work would be carried out in sections, beginning with the area for vegetable vendors, and was expected to be completed in a year, he said.