Free Trade Area for Kedah hawkers

ALOR STAR – In order to help the people who are affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, will create a Free Trade Area for hawkers, beginning November 15.

Since the conditional movement control order (CMCO) came into effect, many hawkers have found themselves stranded as they have not been able to sell their produce and food since the public is mostly hesitant to go out.

Menteri Besar Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor said that the state has identified an area where both the traders and customers would be closely screened to ensure that they can purchase the food.

In a statement on his Facebook page, Sanusi said that the decision was agreed upon and made by five local councils; Alor Star City Council, Sungai Petani Municipal Council, Langkawi Municipal Council, Kulim Municipal Council, and Kubang Pasu Municipal Council.

He said interested traders are required to apply for a temporary business permit on a monthly basis with a charge of RM10 only.

"In this regard, traders also need to ensure that they adhere to standard operating procedures (SOP) as their operations should not threaten public safety and that they should not disrupt traffic, and to maintain cleanliness within the identified areas," he said.

Sanusi said he hoped all the mayors involved would cooperate, as well as conduct regular monitoring to ensure the surrounding conditions were safe and clean, including in enforcing the SOPs.

“If there are any complaints from the community regarding the site, such as causing disturbance or neglecting hygiene or a security issue, the respective local councils will take the necessary action,” he added. – The Vibes, November 12, 2020