HOUSING and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming has rejected allegations that the MyKiosk project has become a white elephant, asserting that the majority of kiosks under the initiative are currently in use and serving their intended purpose.
Speaking at the ministry’s 2024 Excellence Appreciation Ceremony, Nga said, “Not true (white elephant allegation). The majority have been filled, only a few are not yet in operation.”
He added that the Department of Local Government had issued instructions for all 7,000 kiosks nationwide to be fully utilised. The kiosks are allocated based on applications submitted through local authorities, with priority given to small traders—particularly those previously operating illegally by the roadside.
“With MyKiosk, we are ‘legalising’ their businesses by offering free rental for the first six months and a maximum rental rate of RM10 per day,” Bernam cited Nga saying.
His remarks came in response to criticism from Bersatu information chief Datuk Tun Faisal Ismail Aziz, who had labelled the project as wasteful and ineffective.
Launched to support the B40 group and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), the MyKiosk initiative provides standardised, safe, and low-rent business spaces aimed at improving income levels and the socio-economic status of local communities.
As of December 2024, a total of 7,243 kiosks had been approved across 133 local authorities, benefitting more than 7,000 families. - May 8, 2025
