Kota bharu: The iconic Siti Khadijah Market is undergoing significant upgrades with the aim of transforming it into a major tourist destination by 2026, in alignment with the Visit Malaysia Year campaign.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming announced that the renovation efforts are expected to be completed this year. The upgrades will enhance the experience for visitors and benefit the 1,500 local traders operating within the market. Key features of the project include modernizing public toilets to be more tourist-friendly, installing new electrical systems, repainting the building, and improving the interior structure.
Nga expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for allocating RM5.5 million in special funds to support the Kota Bharu Municipal Council (MPKB) in executing the project. Additionally, the Housing and Local Government Ministry contributed another RM1.5 million, resulting in a total project fund of RM7 million.
He emphasized that the market's transformation aligns with the MADANI government's efforts to stimulate the local economy through tourism, as outlined in the MADANI Economy framework and the Visit Malaysia Year campaign. During his visit, Nga also explored the MyKiosk project, a collaborative initiative between the Housing and Local Government Ministry and MPKB. All 17 kiosks in the project are now occupied by local entrepreneurs.
Nga highlighted a success story within the MyKiosk initiative, where a burger seller reported earning over RM10,000 monthly. The rent for kiosks is set at an affordable RM150 per month, with an introductory offer of six months free rent to help entrepreneurs launch their businesses. The kiosks utilize solar energy, contributing to reduced electricity costs and supporting the government's low-carbon city objectives.
To date, the Housing and Local Government Ministry has aided over 7,000 families, including B40 groups, roadside traders, and previously unlicensed hawkers, by enabling them to register and operate legally. Nga praised the MPKB management for their dedication to implementing initiatives that enhance the well-being of the community in Kelantan.