Some foreign traders pay RM10,000 a month to run stalls at KL Wholesale market - association

KUALA LUMPUR - Foreign traders are using local licences and paying rent of up to RM10,000 per month to operate in a row of premises outside the Kuala Lumpur Wholesale Market.

Kuala Lumpur Hoi Seong Fish Wholesale Association chairman, Sing Kian Hock has express concerns as despite raids by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) to seize goods, it has failed to deter foreign hawkers and United Nations High Commission for Refugees card holders (UNHCR).

He urged for frequent integrated operations involving all agencies, especially immigration and the police to avoid overcrowding along the streets, traffic disturbances and unsanitary conditions along the area.

He said this during a visit with Batu MP P Prabakaran, today.

He alleged that UNHCR cardholders are working illegally and even holding leadership positions in the area and suspected that certain parties may be protecting the traders, allowing them to continue operating despite their expired licenses.

"I have evidence that they use the licence of local people to operate and pay RM10,000 a month," he said.

Meanwhile, Prabakaran pledged an integrated operation involving all agencies from next month.

He acknowledged that the number of locals in the market have decreased after foreign traders were monopolising the area.

He said DBKL could take action on unlicensed sales but it needs tohold discussions with immigration and National Security Council (NSC) to seek a solution to the problem.