Zaliha said the project is her key focus for this year and Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) had been instructed to expedite a census of traders in the area within two weeks.

“Redevelopment of this market is a legacy issue that needs to be resolved immediately and cannot be delayed any longer,” she said in a Facebook post after visiting the market yesterday.

She said the redevelopment of the nearly 50-year-old market building was long overdue as its deteriorating condition posed safety risks for both traders and visitors.

“There was a fire incident in the past, which has added to the safety concerns. So, redevelopment is the best way to make the market safer and more conducive for everyone,” she said.

Zaliha added that the project will be carried out in phases to minimise disruptions to ongoing business activities.

“I want to see this place as a more comfortable, cleaner and safer market, equipped with modern facilities for the well-being of all, while also helping to boost traders’ income,” she said.

On July 26 last year, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim had urged DBKL to give attention and priority to the redevelopment of the dilapidated market.