Kuala lumpur: Local authorities (PBTs) nationwide have been urged to consider reducing rental rates for business premises, stalls, and food courts under their jurisdiction until the end of 2026. Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming stated that the initiative is a proactive effort by the MADANI Government to safeguard public welfare and support hawkers and small traders who are currently dealing with increasing operating costs.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Nga Kor Ming emphasized that this strategic move is designed to alleviate the financial burden on local hawkers and small traders, thereby promoting economic growth at the grassroots level. He noted that the initiative could also ensure the continuity of business operations, maintain job opportunities, and strengthen the economic resilience of local communities.

The minister highlighted that by offering this rental reduction, the government aims to help small traders remain operational, which in turn can contribute to stabilizing the prices of goods and services for consumers. Nga mentioned that the ministry would collaborate closely with all PBTs to determine suitable implementation methods based on financial capabilities and local needs to continue strengthening public well-being and the urban economic ecosystem.

Nga reiterated that the welfare of the people has always been a priority for the MADANI Government, emphasizing the importance of ensuring no group is left behind in national development and that all continue to benefit from the country's economic growth. He added that this move would complement various ongoing efforts to support the small business community, including entrepreneurship assistance programs, the provision of more conducive business facilities, and the upgrading of food courts and public markets.

Last Tuesday, the National Economic Action Council (MTEN) urged PBTs and state governments nationwide to immediately reduce rental rates for premises or shops under their jurisdiction. Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir stressed that this step is vital to assist small traders, night market operators, and micro-entrepreneurs in managing rising operating costs, which constitute a significant portion of their total business expenses. He warned that without such interventions, the risk of business closures could increase significantly, given their exposure to weak cash flow and reliance on a single source of income.