Story by Chan Lilian
Pix by Alissala Thian
“GOOD project, good governance” was how Penang Island Municipal Council (MPPP) chief Datuk Patahiyah Ismail described the effort to gather feedback from the people before upgrading the Campbell Street market.
“Although this may involve a much longer time, the feedback will help MPPP to deliver what the community wants,” Patahiyah said at the launch of the public feedback campaign from Feb 27 to end of April.
The Penang Women Development Corporation (PWDC) was appointed as the agency to do the research involving the traders and market goers and the community in the area.
Exco member Chow Kon Yeow who launched the project explained: “The Campbell Street market at the junction of Campbell Street and Carnavon Street is one of the earliest to be built in George Town in the 1900s.
“It has a unique corner facade treatment and this market lies in the heritage zone category.
“Previously, there were proposals to upgrade but they were not realised. I believe with this thorough engagement with traders and the public, it will be successful this time. The estimated cost will be around RM3 million.”
There are 52 licensed traders, of which 39 are men and 13 women.
PWDC will analyse the market goers’ needs and will ensure that the arrangements are optimised according to these needs.
MPPP is ready to work with PWDC and the George Town World Heritage Incorporated (GTWHI), Penang Heritage Trust (PHT) and other organisations and take proactive steps in the conservation of the heritage building.
At the same time, MPPP hopes that by revitalising the market, it will also activate the tangible and intangible heritage of the building and its surroundings.d.getElementsByTagName(‘head’)[0].appendChild(s);