SANDAKAN: On September 18, leaders from the Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP), headed by Vice President Thomas Lau Chi Keong, visited the Sandakan Central Market to gain insight into the difficulties faced by traders, especially concerning the critical water and electricity supply problems.
Traders voiced their strong discontent regarding the impending three-week market closure for renovations, which will disrupt their income. They raised concerns about the Sandakan Municipal Council’s failure to conduct regular maintenance and requested a temporary trading location along with a reduction in rent for at least one month to alleviate their financial strain.
Lau committed to presenting these issues to the Sandakan Municipal Council, emphasizing the necessity of safeguarding hawkers’ livelihoods throughout the project.
He assured them that he would advocate for a temporary site and suitable rent concessions.
During the visit, one hawker also called for ongoing efforts to uphold the MA63 agreement, highlighting the entitlement to 40% of annual tax revenue being returned to Sabah, as stated in the Federal Constitution.
Lau reiterated SAPP’s dedication to this objective.
