MELAKA: A bak chang (traditional rice dumpling) seller stole the spotlight at an impromptu dialogue session about a vehicle-free zone plan in Bandar Hilir, Melaka. The session, organized by Kota Melaka MP Khoo Poay Tiong to listen to the concerns of business owners along Jalan Temenggong, took place on Tuesday (Aug 22). The road has recently been converted into a one-way route to accommodate the upcoming transformation of multiple streets in Bandar Hilir into a vehicle-free zone during weekends.
Madam Teh, a 60-year-old bak chang seller, attracted attention as she boldly rode her motorcycle to the hotel where the dialogue was held. She then marched to the front of the hall and grabbed the microphone from another trader, captivating the audience with her unexpected appearance. In attendance was Melaka Historic City Council (MBMB) mayor Datuk Shadan Othman, who seemed amused by the woman’s actions and entertained by her views on diverting vehicles.
Madam Teh explained that she had learned about the dialogue and rushed to the venue from a nearby wet market where she was selling dumplings. She apologized for her unconventional delivery, acknowledging that her speech may have sparked laughter among the attendees. However, she appreciated the mayor’s considerate response to her concerns.
Shadan later expressed satisfaction with the session, stating that it yielded valuable input for finding a mutually beneficial solution for both the business community and the city council. MBMB intends to present the traders’ viewpoints to other stakeholders within the state government, fostering cooperation between the business community and the authorities regarding the vehicle-free zone initiative.
The session also addressed other issues, such as frequent flooding and the need for a large-scale cleanup, scheduled for September 2. Shadan noted that many tourists had responded positively to the vehicle-free zone, with 4,000 visitors registered on Saturday, August 19. He highlighted that tourists welcomed the opportunity to explore the heritage trail and capture photographs of historical buildings undisturbed by heavy traffic.
Shadan clarified that the vehicle-free zone would only be enforced on Saturdays and not on Fridays and Sundays, as initially announced. The affected roads, which will be closed from 6pm to midnight on Saturdays, include Jalan Istana, Jalan Mahkamah, Jalan Gereja, Lorong Gereja, Jalan Laksamana, as well as sections of Jalan Tun Khalil Yaakob and Jalan Merdeka. Additionally, Jalan Temenggong has permanently become a one-way street.
The concept of car-free streets was initially proposed by Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh in May, which initially faced opposition from traders. However, the session appeared to demonstrate growing acceptance and support from the business community.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
