(From left) Caretaker state local government committee chairman Jagdeep Singh Deo, Rajendran, Chow, Tanjung MP Lim Hui Ying and incumbent Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng at the upgraded facility.
WITH its fresh interior and colourful stained glass exterior, the newly upgraded Anson Road market food court is all set for better times.
Penang Island City Council (MBIP) mayor Datuk A. Rajendran said renovation works costing RM2.79mil were carried out.
“During the upgrade, we reduced the stalls from 43 to 21.
“This was to make more space for stall operators and diners,” he said at the food court.
Rajendran said other refurbishing works included installing an exhaust fan to deal with smoke from cooking.
“The floor was fixed and other amenities were upgraded such as washing spaces, grease trap, lighting, electrical sockets, wall fans, water pipes, electricity meters and water system.
Customers enjoying the newly upgraded Anson Road market food court in Penang. — Photos: LIM BENG TATT/The Star
“The toilets and drainage were repaired as well,” he said.
Rajendran said the complex, which was built in 1948, now has metal deck roofing plus insulation, and is also twice its earlier height.
“Works began in July 2020 but was delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic and completed in July 2022.
“Hopefully the upgrade will draw more customers to the place as we realise that it can be hard for the hawkers who are trying to earn a living,” he said.
Caretaker Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who was the guest of honour at the ceremony, said the facelift has made a difference to hawkers at the food court.
“Since 2009, MBIP has carried out 58 construction projects, upgrading works and modifications on 30 markets, food courts and hawker centres.
“Seven more upgrading related projects will be completed next year,” he said.
