KUCHING: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak did a walkabout at the Stutong Community Market here yesterday and delighted the 550-odd hawkers present with a RM300,000 allocation for upgrading purposes.

The money would be used, among others, to make the market more comfortable and to equip it with closed circuit television (CCTV) and Wifi facilities.

In his speech after mingling and exchanging greetings with the crowd, Najib said he was aware that the food court was uncomfortable for both hawkers and patrons because it was hot and humid.

“The allocation would also be used to improve the ceiling and ventilation system to make the place comfortable for everyone.

“This allocation is also a sign of BN’s appreciation to the people living in the Tabuan area.

“So, remember to vote for the BN in this coming state election! Vote for BN! Vote for Sih Hua Tong!” said Najib to the loud applause of those present.

Meanwhile, Sih, who is the BN candidate for Batu Lintang, said the proposed Wifi network at the market could be used by everybody.

On the April 16 polls, Sih said that the BN was aware of the plight of the people living in the Batu Lintang constituency which has been under the DAP for the past five years.

“We will try to solve their plights one at a time.”

Sih said he had a plan to develop Batu Lintang and hoped that the electorates would give him a chance to show his mettle.

“If I am elected, one of the first things which I will do is send a proposal to the relevant authority and get some allocations to carry out drainage improvement works to alleviate the problems of flooding.

“I will be working closely with government agencies, departments and Ministries to help solve the people’s problems,” he pledged.

Also at the walkabout yesterday were BN candidate for Pending Dr Sim Kui Hian, Datuk Alfred Yap (Kota Sentosa), Sim Kiang Chiok (Padungan), Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon, MBKS mayor James Chan and Padawan Municipal Council chairman Lo Khere Chiang.