Put off by pong at Meru market

KLANG Municipal Council (MPK) plans to construct two additional toilets at Block D in Pasar Besar Meru, Klang, to accommodate the increasing number of visitors.

The director of MPK Market Management and Small Traders Department, Azhar Samsudin, stated that while the 27-year-old market currently has enough toilets for traders and visitors, new facilities will be built to meet future demand.

Azhar urged market traders to report any incidents of vandalism or theft of toilet fixtures to MPK.

According to Azhar, vandalism by outsiders, including the theft of pipes, fixtures, and fittings, and the improper disposal of items in the toilets, are common occurrences.

He added that these incidents tend to increase on weekends and public holidays when the market receives higher footfall.

However, traders disagree with MPK’s claim that there are enough toilets for them and visitors. They have raised concerns about the poor state of the toilets on the ground floor and first floor of Block A and B.

A man standing at the entrance of the smelly toilet which is just next to the vegetable stalls. — Photos: KK SHAM/The Star

According to the traders, out of a dozen cubicles available in both blocks, only two cubicles are deemed usable. The traders have emphasized the need for thorough disinfection and cleaning of the filthy toilets.

StarMetro’s inspection confirmed the presence of excrement-filled toilet bowls that were unable to flush properly, resulting in an unpleasant odor within the market premises. The foul smell has been causing discomfort to both shoppers and traders, spreading to various sections of the market.

At Block B, the drains are clogged, leading to the presence of flies and unappealing black water stains.

The drain at Block B of the market is filled with rubbish in black water.

Klang Market Stall Holders Association chairman, Ng Joo Keong, expressed disappointment with MPK’s lack of action despite having lodged multiple complaints over the past few months. He believes the deteriorating toilet conditions have contributed to a decline in business for the traders.

Joo Keong has lodged six complaints at MPK about the toilet problem, to no avail.

Suliah Kasmuni, a vegetable seller, mentioned that men often use the toilets designated for women due to the urgency of the situation. She also highlighted the poor condition of external toilets.

Yong Guat Hong, another vegetable seller, expressed discomfort in using the women’s toilet as men frequently use it as well. Additionally, the toilet meant for people with disabilities is closed.

Suliah’s stall is just 10m from the toilet which the local council has failed to maintain.

In response, Azhar acknowledged that out of the 12 toilets available, only four are functional. He attributed the problems to broken doors, pump malfunctions, clogged toilets, and the improper disposal of rubbish.

A cleaning contractor has been hired to conduct three daily cleaning sessions, and MPK is closely monitoring the situation. Azhar also mentioned the need for replacing the market’s old sewerage system pipes.

The market has been operating since 1996, with daily opening hours from midnight to 5pm.