Progress of improvement work at KK Central Market Deemed Satisfactory

29 August 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Improvement works at the Kota Kinabalu Central Market are progressing satisfactorily, according to Api-Api Assemblywoman Datuk Seri Christina Liew.

Among the initiatives under way are the installation of a desalination plant to convert seawater into drinking water for traders and vendors, and the introduction of green cleaning technology designed to eliminate unpleasant odours and improve hygiene at the market.

“I am very pleased with the performance of Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK). A cleaner, more hygienic and healthier marketplace is in store for vendors and members of the public,” Liew said following her latest inspection visit to the market on Friday.

The Assemblywoman noted that following the installation of 300 sterilisation LED lights on the ground floor last year, an additional 50 have since been added to the remaining section of the dry market on the ground floor, with 250 more fitted on the first floor at the food court and clothing section.

As Liew mingled with traders, vendors expressed their appreciation. A clothing vendor, Hjh Jurmah, simply said: “Thank you, YB,” while at the Spice Corner, trader Mariam remarked, “Sekarang terang, dulu gelap” (Now bright, before dark).

At the fish market, fishmongers reported that 50 new lights had been installed last week to replace old ones.

Liew also urged DBKK to address safety concerns by repairing a slippery ramp at the fish market where several vendors and visitors had suffered falls.

She further confirmed that the desalination plant and green cleaning technology, located near the Fresh Meat Market, are scheduled for completion by October this year.

Liew was accompanied during her inspection by Api-Api Community Development Leader Theresa Chong Mui Lan, DBKK Mechanical Engineer Ts. Chong Kien Vui, DBKK Market Management Division Chief Hassim Musa, and DBKK Market Unit Enforcement Supervisor Stanislaus Loison.