TRADERS at Ipoh Central Market, located within the Urban Transformation Centre (UTC) have been facing a significant drop in business over the years. Those who spoke to StarMetro believe the decline was due to inadequate parking facilities as well as the presence of drug addicts at the premises. Trader V.
Nadarasaa, who has run Super Bookstore there for 42 years, said the once bustling central market, which used to be known as Super Kinta shopping centre, was seeing fewer visitors due to these issues. “Lots of shops have closed. With fewer traders operating, it has further reduced foot traffic.
“Visitors are still struggling with the use of Flexi Parking and Park@Perak apps when they park at the multi-level parking lot at the Amanjaya Chicken Market building nearby,” he said of the three-storey market on Jalan Datuk Onn Jaafar. “Many, especially the elderly, avoid coming here because of the inconvenience. “Some customers have had to get the help of parking agents when they are unable to exit from the building due to issues with the apps.
They just don’t come back.” Nadarasaa says fewer traders further reduce foot traffic. Nadarasaa said his business was still reeling from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“The pandemic has also played a role in declining sales, with more customers opting to shop online,” he added. Tailor Abim Abidin said the parking issue had badly affected his business. “Most of the people who come here are elderly, and they find it har.