SIBU: The newly constructed Sungai Merah Market has officially opened to the public, marking the completion of a long-awaited redevelopment project.
Built on the site of the previous seven-decade-old structure, which was demolished in late 2022, the new market combines a modern design with improved facilities while maintaining nearly all the stalls from the original layout, including those in the tamu (traditional market) section and food court.
It has also introduced new stalls offering Muslim cuisine.
The RM8 million market features nine food stalls, 18 dry market stalls, and five wet market stalls.
The soft launching ceremony of the market was officiated by Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing, and Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee here today.
Tiang, who is also the Pelawan assemblyman, said the old market was in a dilapidated condition, with issues such as roof leaks..
“Now, traders have a spacious, airy, and modern place to run their businesses. With the improved environment, many may consider extending their operating hours, even into the evening,” he said.
He noted that early feedback from traders has been very positive, with some stalls selling out their stock before 11 am.
Tiang also thanked the Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) for successfully managing the project from start to finish and acknowledged the patience of traders who relocated to the riverside during construction.
“I am grateful to the original hawkers who made the temporary move and waited patiently for this market to be completed,” he said.
He urged Sibu residents, especially those in the Sungai Merah area, to visit the market, support the traders, and help create a lively atmosphere.
“This market is just the beginning of my vision to rejuvenate Sungai Merah. I will soon unveil further plans and projects to revitalise the area,” he added.
At the ceremony, Tiang presented ‘ang pow’ to the hawkers in conjunction with the soft opening.
He also distributed new year calendars and umbrellas to the visitors.
Also present were SMC chairman Clarence Ting Ing Horh and SMC deputy chairman Mohammed Abdullah Izkandar Roseley.
