Kuching: Heavy rain and violent storms that hit several areas in this district yesterday forced the closure of the N6 Metrocity 2 Youth Night Market following severe damage to infrastructure and vendors' tents. A vendor who wanted to be identified as Mohamad Faisal, 42, recounted the terrifying moment that occurred during the weekend night peak business hours, which is usually the focus of many visitors.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the sudden incident forced vendors to flee to save themselves following strong winds that blew away and demolished the canopy structure at the site. Mohamad Faisal described the scene as chaotic and dangerous, with canopies being tossed around by the wind, posing a significant threat to both vendors and visitors. He stated, "I was walking to my site, and I didn't dare to approach (enter the site). I and other traders ran away because I was afraid that other canopies would hit us."

The traders, who have been operating at the night market for the past 10 years, estimate they have incurred losses of almost RM2,000 due to broken and damaged business equipment and merchandise. The incident has been described as one of the worst to hit the business site, according to N6 Metrocity 2 Youth Night Market deputy chairman Hamzah Hassan.

Hamzah confirmed that more than 40 trader lots were severely affected due to damage to canopies and sales equipment out of a total of about 300 trader lots operating at the night market. He emphasized the extent of the damage, noting that public facilities and infrastructure, such as the main stage, management office, and electricity supply cables, also suffered significant damage. "Each trader is estimated to bear losses of between RM2,000 and RM5,000 for the cost of the canopy alone, depending on the size and structure, not including damage to business equipment such as stoves and water jugs," he explained.

In light of the devastation, Hamzah expressed hope for contributions and assistance from relevant ministries, elected representatives, and cooperatives to alleviate the financial burden on the affected hawkers. The Malaysian Meteorological Department (METMalaysia) had issued a thunderstorm warning from 5 pm to 9 pm for several areas in Sarawak, including Kuching, Serian, Siburan, Samarahan, Simunjan, Kapit, and Song, the day before the incident.