VENDORS at the Cecil Street Market have warmly welcomed the Penang Island City Council’s (MBPP) initiative to upgrade the market’s public toilet by incorporating smart technologies.
The revamped toilet will include features such as light sensors, a people counter to track the number of users, an ammonia sensor to detect odours, and touchless tap sensors for enhanced hygiene.
Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Wong Yuee Harng recently announced that the upgrade work will commence soon and is expected to take five months, with completion scheduled for February next year.
Additionally, the toilet will be equipped with a panic button to ensure the safety of women and differently-abled individuals.
Buletin Mutiara spoke with several vendors to gather their perspectives on the upcoming upgrade.
Trader Tan Ming Keat, 62, said the new facility will improve convenience and create a conducive environment for both vendors and visitors.
“We have a variety of stalls here, including those selling fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, clothing, and more.
“This initiative will help to attract more customers to the market as well as the food court.
“Cleanliness is a priority, and maintaining a clean environment is essential,” added Tan, who has been selling bedsheets at the market for over two years.
Another trader, 20-year-old Chin Soon Ming, who helps at his father’s fruit stall, hopes that the ammonia sensor system will help ensure the toilet remains clean.
He believes proper management is key to maintaining hygiene.
“For example, when the intelligent sensor detects an odour and sends a signal, workers can respond quickly to clean the toilet.
Nathan Veerapan, a 78-year-old retiree and regular market visitor, praised the MBPP for implementing smart and eco-friendly upgrades.
“This is a beneficial initiative that will improve hygiene in public spaces and provide a more comfortable dining experience for both locals and tourists,” Nathan said.
He also mentioned he previously worked with the council before switching to another job.
Another vendor, who wished to remain anonymous, also welcomed the initiative and expressed hope that the work would commence soon and be completed within the scheduled timeframe.
The upgrade will provide a dedicated toilet for differently-abled individuals, a baby room in both the men’s and ladies’ restrooms, and a breastfeeding room.
The toilet will be equipped with solar panels and a rainwater collection system for flushing, making it environmentally friendly.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Siew Chia En