THE Penang Island City Council (MBPP) has successfully developed the Pantai Mas Temporary Traders’ Site (TPS) in Batu Ferringhi within just four months, following a devastating fire last July that destroyed approximately 30 stalls at the same location.
The fire, which broke out on July 28 last year, severely damaged two complexes – the Pantai Mas Complex and the Huma House Complex. Reports confirmed that 30 active licensed traders were affected, including 16 from the Pantai Mas Complex and 14 from the Huma House Complex.
MBPP mayor Datuk A. Rajendran acknowledged the significant impact of the fire on traders who relied entirely on these complexes for their livelihoods.
“To ensure business continuity, the city council acted swiftly to develop the Pantai Mas TPS, providing a dedicated space for all 30 affected licensees.
“The site consists of 30 trading units, including 24 designated for general merchandise and six for food and beverage sales.
“The project was successfully completed within four months, with a total expenditure of RM419,279.
“The development includes trading units built with a steel structure, metal deck roofing and cladding, along with gutters and rainwater downpipes.
“The site also features concrete flooring, partitioned iron fencing, iron doors for each unit, and the installation of lighting and fans. Additionally, water supply, sinks, and grease traps have been provided for food units,” he said during the opening ceremony of the Pantai Mas TPS today.
Rajendran emphasised that while the Pantai Mas TPS is a temporary facility, the council has meticulously planned its design to ensure both comfort and safety for traders and visitors.
“Adequate lighting and ventilation have been incorporated to create a conducive trading environment, allowing business operations to continue smoothly in a well-organised setting,” he added.
Penang Infrastructure, Transport, and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari praised the swift completion of the Pantai Mas TPS development.
“This was completed in just four months! My sincere thanks and congratulations to the mayor, the MBPP team, and the project contractor.
“I would also like to express my appreciation to the state Local Government, Town, and Country Planning Committee chairman, Jason H’ng Mooi Lye, for his role in ensuring MBPP successfully completed this project,” he said.
Zairil also highlighted the North Coastal Paired Road (NCPR) project, known as Package One under the Penang Transport Master Plan (PTMP), which will serve as an alternative route from Tanjong Bunga to Teluk Bahang.
“This project aims to improve connectivity and ease congestion along Penang’s northern coastline while also acting as a catalyst for socio-economic development in Batu Ferringhi and Teluk Bahang,” he said.
Meanwhile, H’ng commended the local council for its effective planning and execution of the Pantai Mas TPS, made possible through the cooperation of all parties involved.
“The construction of this temporary site is a crucial first step in ensuring that traders can resume their businesses in a safe and orderly manner.
“The site has been thoughtfully designed to provide both comfort and security for all stakeholders.
“The state government hopes that this initiative will help ease the burden on affected traders and facilitate a smooth transition as they work towards rebuilding their livelihoods.
“On this occasion, I would also like to remind all traders to maintain cleanliness and safety at the site.
“Ensuring a well-kept environment will not only create a more comfortable trading space but also a safe and welcoming atmosphere for both traders and visitors,” he said.
Representing the traders at the ‘key handover’ ceremony today were traders Ng Yet Kin, Rosmawati Zul, and Bupalan Irulandy.
Rosmawati, 46, commended state representatives Zairil and H’ng, along with the MBPP, for their proactive efforts in completing the Pantai Mas TPS in just four months.
“This reflects the efficiency of the current administration in serving the people.
“In some states, such a project could take years,” she said.
Rosmawati, who operates a mini market, also raised concerns about monkeys in the area and hoped the council would address the issue.
“We worry that the monkeys might ransack our stalls, as the gaps above the iron fencing and doors are wide enough for them to get through,” she said.
When asked, Bupalan expressed his gratitude for the project.
“I am thankful that I can continue my business here. I lost everything, worth around RM100,000, in the fire last July,” said Bupalan, 73, who sells swimming attire.
Also present were MBPP secretary Cheong Chee Hong, and councillors Benji Ang and Tan Soo Siang.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Siew Chia En