Ramadan bazaars might be allowed this year, says Zuraida

Housing and Local Government Minister Zuraida Kamaruddin says Ramadan bazaars might be allowed this year subject to improved and more efficient SOPs.

However she said the matter would be discussed with the National Security Council (NSC) before a decision is made.

“The ministry will look at the SOP again to make it better and more efficient.

“I do not see any problem as open markets and pasar malam (night markets) are allowed to operate. God willing, Ramadan bazaars can resume this time,” she said after an event in Ipoh today.

The federal territories ministry and Negeri Sembilan government have already agreed to allow the holding of Ramadan bazaars this year and are waiting for a decision from the NSC given the enforcement of the conditional movement control order.

Meanwhile, the Shah Alam City Council has received 1,600 applications from traders to hold Ramadan bazaars. It is waiting for approval from the Selangor government and advice from the NSC.