Traders urged to register with new association

Thursday September 24, 2009

By GEETHA KRISHNAN

LICENSED hawkers and traders operating at the day or night markets in Bandar Sungai Long have been urged to register with the newly-formed Petty Traders Association of Bandar Sungai Long, Kajang, to address pertinent issues.

The appeal was made by association chairman Kok Soon Kiat at a press conference on Monday. Also present was Kajang municipal councillor Tan Han Kuo, a member of the council’s licensing committee.

“The association with the cooperation of the Kajang Municipal Council will look into matters like unlicensed hawkers, hygiene, illegal foreign traders and security for customers especially with pickpockets on the prowl,” he said.

The new association, registered with the Registrar of Societies (ROS) on July 27, replaces the previous and now defunct association, the Bandar Sungai Long Hawkers Association formed in 2000.

“The old association was dissolved by the ROS last year for failing to submit annual and financial reports after continuous reminders since 2004. The RM30,000 kept in the association’s coffers were transferred to the Insolvency Department,” said Tan.

He also said two police reports were lodged in 2005 by association members who suspected the committee members of malpractice.

He said MPKj could keep track of licensed hawkers and traders via the association. Unlicensed hawkers and traders are estimated at 50.

The current membership is 212 and the association has embarked on an aggressive recruitment drive. Members pay RM10 to register and RM2 monthly. Those interested may contact Tan at 012-223 9529.

Beware of pick-pockets, public warned

Thursday September 24, 2009

By GEETHA KRISHNAN

RESIDENTS have been urged to be cautious of pick-pockets who are now operating in a team of three members in Bandar Sungai Long, Selangor.

Kajang municipal councillor Tan Han Kuo said the group’s modus operandi was brought to his attention by several victims who had shopped at the daily morning market near the commercial centre.

“I was told the group would single out women and old ladies as their targets. One of the team members would bump into the victim on purpose, causing her to drop her purchases, while another would quickly swoop in and pretend to help retrieve her belongings.

“Once the victim gets distracted, the third team member will swiftly snatch her purse.

“The victim would only realise the theft when they are out of sight,” he said.

As a deterrent, signs warning residents of pick-pockets and snatch thieves have been put up.

The newly-formed Petty Traders Association of Bandar Sungai Long, Kajang, Selangor, is also working with the authorities to curb the crime.

Meanwhile, Tan urged the public to be careful when visiting the area and not to carry large amounts of cash or purses and wallets that would attract undue attention.