Kuala Lumpur: The redevelopment project of Pasar Dato Keramat is scheduled to commence in the first quarter of 2025, according to Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa. She stated that the project is the primary focus of the Federal Territories Department for the upcoming year, with Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) tasked to expedite a census to finalize the number of traders in the area within a two-week timeframe.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Zaliha emphasized the importance of this redevelopment to ensure timely planning and actions. She described the issue as a legacy concern that requires immediate resolution due to the deteriorating condition of the nearly 50-year-old market structure, which poses safety risks to traders and visitors. A previous fire incident has heightened these safety concerns, making redevelopment a necessary step to enhance the market’s safety and conduciveness.

Dr Zaliha outlined that the redevelopment project would be executed in phases to minimize disruption to ongoing business activities. Her vision for the market includes a transformation into a more comfortable, cleaner, and safer environment, complete with modern facilities that could potentially boost traders’ income.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who visited Pasar Dato Keramat on July 26 last year, had urged DBKL to prioritize the redevelopment of the market due to its dilapidated state. Following the Prime Minister’s visit, several immediate measures have been taken, including the upgrading of toilets and repair of electrical wiring, as mentioned by Dr Zaliha.