Ipoh: The Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) has designated RM15 million for the upgrade of the Ipoh Central Market. The initiative aims to transform it into a modern market and an attractive tourist destination. Minister Nga Kor Ming emphasized that this funding is part of the ministry’s efforts to revitalize heritage markets that are over 50 years old, marking it as a priority.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Nga Kor Ming announced the initiative during a press conference after visiting Pasar Canning. He highlighted the objective of reviving the nostalgic appeal and glory of Pasar Besar Ipoh by enhancing its facilities to draw tourists, envisioning it as a new Central Market. The Ipoh City Council (MBI) is currently hosting an open design competition for the market’s redevelopment, inviting nationwide participation. The completion of the upgrade is anticipated by the end of 2026.
Nga also encouraged applications from across Malaysia for upgrading heritage markets, particularly those over 50 years old. In addition to the Ipoh Central Market project, there are plans to upgrade the Buntong Market in Perak. Earlier, he visited the Pasir Pinji Market, another heritage site in Perak, which is undergoing a substantial upgrade with a RM16 million budget. The project involves demolishing the existing structure and constructing 214 commercial units, parking spaces for cars, motorcycles, and trucks, including disabled-friendly parking.
The Pasir Pinji Market, over 50 years old, is being modernized with a focus on sustainable design, including features like a Rainwater Storage System (SPAH), Green Rating (PH), and an Energy Saving System, with completion targeted for November 2026.
The upgrade of the Canning Market has been finalized with a RM500,000 allocation from KPKT through the Local Government Department (JKT). The improvements comprised replacing roller shutters and grilles, repainting, electrical enhancements, installing anti-climb fences, and enhancing the landscaping. Nga noted that these upgrades have improved comfort for traders and visitors while boosting economic opportunities for the community.