Medan Sate in Kajang, Selangor, is a famous food court known for its satay. The food court was built in the 1990s and was one of the first dedicated to the skewered grilled meat dish. Kamaruzaman Abdul Karim, a satay seller, shared that his late grandfather, Rono Satiban, was one of the first traders to be given a lot at Medan Sate. Rono and his brother came to Kajang in 1917 and started their satay business after working as farm hands. The food court started as an open-air bazaar but was later developed into a building with 10 trading lots allocated to various families.
However, traders are concerned about the lack of maintenance at the council-operated food court. Many traders have had to carry out repairs themselves due to the dire state of the facility. For example, Kamaruzaman had to repair furnishings and replace burnt-out fluorescent tubes. Traders also mentioned that many ceiling fans and fluorescent tube casings are not working properly. Zulbahari Ludin, an Ayam Penyet seller, said that operators had to use their own wiring to light up the place and get the fans working, risking electrocution. The lack of maintenance has resulted in a loss of business, as customers prefer to dine in air-conditioned malls instead.
The food court also faces cleanliness issues. Drug addicts and the homeless occupy the space at night, making it unsafe. Restrooms have no lights, causing female customers to use the restrooms in the nearby mall. The ceiling fans and light fixtures have accumulated dust, and the leaky roof has not been properly repaired. Traders complain about the large rubbish bin placed in front of the food court, as they fear that flies from the bin will contaminate their food.
Traders have made numerous complaints to the Kajang Municipal Council (MPKj), but little action has been taken. The smoke emitted from charcoal grills of the satay shops has also become a concern for nearby shop owners, as it affects the air quality inside their shops. Visitors and satay sellers suggested that a clean-up, fresh coat of paint, and basic repairs would greatly improve the facility.
MPKj corporate unit director Kamarul Izlan Sulaiman stated that the council has conducted a full inspection of Medan Sate and submitted a report for further action. MPKj has also found tenants to occupy two empty units at the food court from October 1. However, budget restrictions have made it difficult for MPKj to respond to complaints in a timely manner. The council has plans to upgrade Medan Sate, potentially including its relocation, but nothing has been finalized yet.
Credit: The Star : Metro Feed
