Melaka boosts vehicle-free zone, traders see profits soar

The Melaka state government is steadfastly improving the vehicle-free zone in Banda Hilir to benefit various stakeholders, with a particular focus on providing economic opportunities for local traders.

Initiated on August 19 last year, the vehicle-free zone has already shown positive effects for traders, and recent relocations have further contributed to increased satisfaction and income.

Positive impact of vehicle-free zone

Datuk Rais Yasin the State Housing, Local Government, Drainage, Climate Change, and Disaster Management Committee chairman. highlighted the positive outcomes observed since the implementation of the vehicle-free zone in Banda Hilir.

He stated, “Since the relocation of traders, we’ve observed an uptick in visitors to Uptown Pahlawan Walk, contributing to increased satisfaction among the traders due to improved income.”

The move to relocate over 120 Uptown Pahlawan Walk traders to a new site in front of the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) Museum has been positively received.

Considerations in relocating traders

Elaborating on the considerations in relocating traders, Rais mentioned factors such as brightness, spaciousness, and the site’s role as a main pedestrian route.

He urged all parties involved to remain patient, calm, and cooperative as ongoing improvements are implemented in the vehicle-free zone.

Rais stated, “This clearly proves that every improvement made by the state government in the vehicle-free zone is not meant to sideline them but to assist them in increasing their income.”

He also acknowledged the initial resistance faced by the state government when introducing the vehicle-free zone initiative at Jonker Walk.

However, he emphasised the positive effects and economic benefits now evident to traders. Chief Minister Datuk Ab Rauf Yusoh is actively involved in the ongoing enhancements.

According to Rais, the chief minister regularly visiting the vehicle-free zone area in Banda Hilir every week to assess necessary improvements, including the addition of parking spaces.

The vehicle-free zone in Banda Hilir, involving the closure of several roads for 54 hours from 6 pm every Friday until midnight on Sunday, has been adjusted to 21 hours on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 6 pm to 1 am until the end of February to accommodate the Chinese New Year celebrations.

The state government’s commitment to regular assessment and improvement showcases its dedication to balancing economic development with the welfare of local traders in the vibrant Banda Hilir area.