KOTA KINABALU: The 2023 National Level Hawkers and Small Traders Day Carnival (HPPK2023), which takes place at Buhavan Square, Penampang, for three days beginning on December 7, is anticipated to draw in about 50,000 visitors.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is scheduled to officiate at the opening ceremony on December 7 at 1:00 p.m.
Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Datuk Ewon Benedick said that a range of engaging activities had been planned for the three-day event.
According to him, there will be 300 sales stalls from 50 exhibitors, 30 food trucks, 190 hawker and small trader stalls, and 14 multi-flavour stalls selling a variety of goods like clothing, handicrafts, food, and drinks.
“There are also Madani Koperasi, Fama, and Rahmah Sales to give visitors the opportunity to get daily necessities at cheaper prices than normal prices in the market.
“In addition, another activity during HPPK is a lucky draw with various attractive prizes such as electrical goods, vouchers, hampers, and many more.
“Cooking, colouring, karaoke competitions, Mobile Legends competitions, Mini 4WD Car Competitions, talks on entrepreneurship from ministry agencies, health checks, and hair cutting services will also be held,” he said.
Ewon said the Aramai Boh Concert will also be held on the second day, which is December 8, from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the main stage of Buhavan Square.
“The guest artists who will make the concert a success are Stacy, Akim, Esther Applunius, Elica Paujin, Jimmy Palikat, Benn Simon, Lyron Felix, Mary Intiang, Raitim Sitim, Martha Ginun, and a live band from Cun-Cun & The Brothers,” he said.
For those interested in participating in the “Golden Voice Singing” karaoke competition, screenings will be held on the second day (8 December) at the Main Stage starting at 2.00 pm and the final competition on the third day (9 December) at 2.00 pm.
The winner of the karaoke competition will receive a cash prize of RM1,000, second place RM700, and third place RM500, along with a trophy and hamper.
The best performer will receive a cash prize of RM300, a trophy, and a hamper. All finalists (10 people) will receive hampers.
He said that in order to avoid congestion and make it easier for people to get to Buhavan Square, six HPPK2023 buses will be prepared to pick up and drop off visitors from ITCC to Buhavan Square.
Visitors who bring their own vehicles can park their vehicles in several places provided, namely the Penampang Sabah Cultural Centre, the Library, Sabah Credit, the Chinese Temple, and the ITCC.
