KUCHING: Public markets under the Padawan Municipal Council (MPP) are intended to remain neutral community spaces, with enforcement actions carried out to ensure shared facilities are free from political displays and remain inclusive for all residents.
According to a press release issued by MPP, the council was responding to allegations of selective enforcement raised by Michael Kong, the special assistant to Stampin assemblyman Chong Chieng Jen, on enforcement actions at a market under its jurisdiction.
MPP chairman Councillor Tan Kai said council-owned premises, including public markets, serve as common spaces where residents from diverse backgrounds gather to purchase daily necessities, and are therefore not meant for the display of political materials from any party.
He explained that recent enforcement actions involved the removal of various unauthorised items, including stickers bearing political party logos as well as advertisements linked to illegal money lenders, adding that such measures form part of the council’s routine enforcement operations.
Tan noted that while the recent Chinese New Year celebrations and the upcoming Ramadan season have seen the distribution of calendars and festive greeting materials by various parties, hawkers are discouraged from displaying materials carrying political logos or symbols within council premises in order to preserve neutrality.
He added that councillors had also distributed official council materials to celebrate with hawkers and neighbouring businesses as part of festive outreach efforts.
Emphasising the role of public markets as shared community spaces, Tan urged parties not to politicise the matter, especially during the festive period, noting that council markets reflect Sarawak’s diversity where halal, non-halal and jungle produce stalls operate side by side.
While politicians are not restricted from visiting council markets, MPP reiterated that political parties are discouraged from placing political materials on council buildings, as these facilities are public assets and do not belong to any political organisation.
