Dr Abdul Rahman (left) speaking at the press conference, accompanied by Junaidi. — Photo by Muhammad Rais Sanusi

KUCHING: Registration for Ramadan Bazaar trading lots at Satok and Semarak will be held on March 14 at Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) Auditorium starting 8:30am, said Assistant Minister in the Chief Minister’s Department (Islamic Affairs and DBKU) Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi.

He said there will be 94 lots available at Satok Ramadan Bazaar, priced between RM450 to RM500 each, while there will be 72 lots at Semarak Ramadan Bazaar, priced between RM400 to RM450 each.

“Successful applicants will have to attend a briefing and voting session on March 28 at 8am also at DBKU Auditorium. The number of permits issued is limited and late applications will not be entertained,” he told a press conference at DBKU Monday.

This year’s Ramadan Bazaar will be from April 24 to May 23.

According to Dr Abdul Rahman, besides the two bazaars organised by DBKU, there will be others that are organised in collaboration with private agencies and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

“So far DBKU has received three applications for Ramadan Bazaars from external agencies. They are Sukma Ria Bazaar by e-Mart, Bandar Baru Semariang Bazaar by Persatuan Benteng Bandar Baru Semariang, and  Haji Taha Art Market by Persatuan Rukun 13 and N8 Satok Economic Bureau.

“For those who are interested, a written application has to be submitted to DBKU, and it will be subjected to management’s approval,” he said.

Dr Abdul Rahman, who is also Assistant Minister of Utilities (Water Supply), reminded traders that all workers and helpers on-site at the bazaars need to undergo medical examination and get typhoid vaccination as well as to undergo a food handling course accredited by the Health Ministry.

“Also, the traders will have to vacate their lots a day before Hari Raya Aidilfitri and ensure nothing is left behind so that DBKU contractors can clear the site. Traders also cannot sub-let their lots to other people.

“DBKU officers will be checking the bazaars and taking food samples to ensure the food sold is safe for consumption. Traders are also prohibited from using styrofoam or polysterene materials for food packing,” he said.