SIBU: Hawkers are encouraged, in today’s digital era, to utilise electronic payment systems and social media for promotion, thus elevating the modernisation of their businesses.
According to Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, the Sarawak government will continue to invest in digital infrastructure, making it easier for everyone to access electronic payment platforms.
“We will also provide training and support to help hawkers thrive in the new economic landscape,” he said at the National Hawker Day Celebration, hosted by the Sibu Division Hawkers’ Association (SDHA) at a prominent hotel here on Sunday night (Nov 17).
Dr Sim, who is also the Minister for Public Health, Housing, and Local Government, said he is fully aware of the unique role the hawker industry plays in fostering community development and enhancing the quality of life.
He added that the government will allocate resources to improve market facilities and public services, creating a more conducive environment for hawkers.
He hoped everyone would seize this opportunity to actively participate in community-building, fostering the joint growth of the hawker industry and the communities.
Despite the rapidly changing market conditions, he firmly believed that with everyone’s collective efforts, the hawker industry would embrace a brighter future.
The government is committed to supporting the hawker community, helping them face challenges and seize future opportunities.
“No matter where you are, you have always been an indispensable part of our community. Hawkers not only provide affordable and quality goods and services but also play a vital role in boosting the local economy and creating jobs.
“Especially during the pandemic, hawkers demonstrated remarkable resilience, providing convenient services to the public. This spirit is something we should all learn from and admire.”
Meanwhile, pointing out the importance of ensuring food safety and sanitary business environments for community health, Dr Sim said the government will continue to enhance market sanitation management and ensure that food stalls meet safety standards, allowing consumers to shop with confidence.
“I also hope that our hawker friends will maintain high standards of hygiene in their daily operations, working together to provide the public with a safe and healthy dining environment,” he added.
The event attracted 332 hawker representatives from 32 affiliated associations nationwide.
Also present were the Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing, and Local Government, Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee; SDHA permanent honorary president, Tan Sri Datuk Tiong Su Kuok; SDHA honorary advisor, Datuk Lau Ngie Hua; and SDHA president, Ting Chuong Chiok.
