MIRI: The long-awaited Batu Niah Market has officially opened, raising much expectation of benefiting the local community and tourism in the Niah area.
It was declared open on Saturday by Bekenu assemblywoman Datuk Rosey Yunus, who highlighted the market’s potential to enhance the region’s tourism industry, given its proximity to the Niah Caves, a Unesco World Heritage Site.
She described the market as a new landmark that would bolster Niah’s appeal to both visitors and residents.
“This market represents an important step in supporting tourism and the local economy, providing an essential hub for traders and a welcoming space for tourists exploring the area,” she said.
The Batu Niah Market has been designed with modern facilities, ensuring a comfortable experience for traders and visitors alike.
It features a two-storey structure with 54 dry market stalls, 10 fishmonger stalls, six butcher stalls on the ground floor, and nine food and drink stalls on the upper level. Dining areas accommodate up to 140 people, with ample seating provided. Additional amenities include public toilets, parking spaces, and reliable electricity and water supply.
Traders have gradually begun operations in the market, with booths becoming active since Dec 18 last year.
However, full utilisation of the upper floor is pending finalisation of trader selection. A variety of daily necessities, including fresh vegetables and fruits, are now available for purchase.
The project’s journey from inception to completion faced several hurdles, including funding constraints.
Initially planned under two financial sources — RMK10 with an allocation of RM2 million and a 2015 Special RTP allocation of RM1.8 million. A final budget of RM4.6 million was approved, with RM2.8 million sourced from the People’s Special Projects allocation and additional funding of RM1.8 million secured later.
Construction commenced on Jan 6, 2021, with a scheduled completion date of April 5, 2022.
However, delays due to the Movement Control Order (MCO), adverse weather, and other unforeseen factors extended the timeline.
The project was ultimately completed, with the Certificate of Eligibility issued on Nov 14 last year.
With the recent designation of Niah National Park as a Unesco World Heritage Site, the new market is expected to attract an influx of tourists, further enhancing the economic prospects of the Subis district.
