THE Astaka Perda Food Court in Bandar Perda is now equipped with free WiFi access and cashless readers.
Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) mayor Datuk Rozali Mohamud said the food court has become the first food complex on the mainland to be installed with a free Internet connection.
“It is the first of its kind in Seberang Perai. The smart initiative is a joint collaboration with Mutiara Smart Sdn Bhd (free WiFi) and E-wallet company, Boost, for cashless transactions.
“The main objective is to enhance digitalisation for business transactions among traders as well as encouraging people to adapt to digital platforms and heading towards a ‘cashless society’.
“The WiFi access at the food court can be used by all traders and customers for free without any conditions and can be accessed by 150 users at any one time with the speed of 50Mbps and also with unlimited quota.
“At the same time, MBSP is also planning to have more strategic partnerships with any broadband service provider so that this free WiFi initiative can be further expanded in all other MBSP-owned premises, including public markets and food complexes,” Rozali said in his speech before state Local Government, Housing, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman Jagdeep Singh Deo officiated the launching ceremony at the food court today.
Jagdeep commended the city council for coming up with the smart initiative.
“It is in line with the Penang2030 vision of a Family-Focused Green and Smart State that Inspires the Nation.
“The use of cashless transactions can also provide various benefits to the traders and consumers.
“As an example, we can minimise the risk of Covid-19 infection when there is less physical contact during payment transactions.
“We can also reduce the risk of receiving counterfeit or damaged money.
“Thus, I would like to urge all traders and the public to opt for cashless transactions in their daily businesses.
“At the same time, the state government also will keep empowering the community through its various economy digitalisation initiatives,” he said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar