Chieng (yellow shirt) presenting cheques to representatives of the three hawker associations.
THE number of visitors to Sibu Central Market, Sarawak, is expected to increase with the recently launched Sibu-Singapore international flight.
The central market – said to be the largest in the country with more than 1,000 traders – experienced a drop of up to 90% in business, according to a survey by Sibu Municipal Council.
Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng said the newly launched Sibu-Singapore route would help bring traffic to the market, which is known for its variety of local produce.
“We also hope the Singapore Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office (Statos) can help promote the Sibu Central Market to foreign tourists,” he said after presenting three small rural project allocation cheques (MRP) to the Sibu Division Hawkers Welfare Association, Sibu Petty Traders Association and Sibu Division Hawkers Association.
Chieng suggested that the market be included in tourism packages so it would become a must-visit place.
In addition to international flights, he noted that Sibu was a gateway to towns in the central region due to the good network of roads.
“We can make the Sibu Central Market a tourist attraction.”
He said many hawkers had experienced a decline in business and reduced income during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Fortunately, the government under Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg has channelled aid to the hawkers,” he added.
Regarding the MRP, Chieng hoped that the associations would use the allocation for their benefit and common good.
“It is hoped that this allocation can be used for their activities besides providing incentives to members’ children who achieved excellent results in public examinations.
“The money can also be used for the members’ welfare,” he said.
