MALACCA: The Malacca government will give Kian Road, off Jalan Bunga Raya, a facelift to alleviate congestion in the area during peak hours.

State MCA chief Datuk Gan Tian Loo said the residents here would also witness a transformation when the area was redesigned to reflect a conducive atmosphere for visitors to shop, dine and stroll along the improved walkways.

“The existing hawkers and fruit stall traders will be shifted into a food court complex, which is to be constructed at the old market which is currently vacant,” he said after officially lighting up red decorative lanters in conjunction with the Lunar New Year at Kian Road.

The new food court complex known as Jee Hoo Medan Selera will allow all hawkers and fruit stall proprietors to trade in the spacious area.

Malacca Historic Council councillor Ronald Gan who was also present at the event, said Jee Hoo was an old coffeshop landmark and everyone residing in the vicinity of Bunga Raya and old Malacca was familiar with the name.

He said the project would also see the existing Kampong Jawa bridge being transformed into a stage area, allowing stage shows and performers to showcase their talents either in dancing, singing or any other form of entertainment just like the one in Jonker Walk.

Ronald Gan said the narrow lane in Kampong Jawa would also be converted into a walkway, and once completed, it would enable tourists to stroll along and admire the area with historic values.

Garment traders, occupying much of the area would remain while hawkers and fruit stall operators would be moved to the new foodcourt, he added.

Later, Gan visited the stalls along Kian Road and exchanged greetings, presented mandarin oranges.

Source : Star Property