THE Penang government, through the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) and the Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP), remains steadfast in its commitment to facilitating the issuance of operating licences for hawkers across the state.
State Local Government, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman Jason H’ng Mooi Lye (PH-Jawi) highlighted the ongoing initiatives aimed at streamlining the licensing process for hawkers.
He said several measures have been implemented to enhance the convenience of obtaining licences for hawkers.
Notably, priority is given to roadside hawkers in their applications. Consultation sessions have been organised to address any concerns raised by hawkers, and specific guidelines have been established to guide the process, according to H’ng.
“We have simplified the procedures for hawkers to apply for licences. They can apply directly through the local councils’ online platforms and websites.
“We also give priority to street vendors, conducting monthly guidance and venue consultation meetings.
“The ‘Program Mesra Pelanggan’ has been implemented to assist merchants to transform their business concepts or business models into a food truck initiative,” he said when replying to an oral question by Mohd Sobri Saleh (PN-Permatang Berangan) during the State Legislative Assembly sitting today.
To ensure orderly business operations, H’ng noted that roadside stalls are strategically located to minimise disruption to the public.
He also provided statistics, stating that the state has issued a total of 203 hawker licences in various areas such as Balik Pulau (46), Bukit Bendera (41), Bukit Gelugor (39), Jelutong (27), Tanjong (26) and Bayan Baru (24).
Story by Edmund Lee