By Amin Ridzuan Ishak
KUALA SELANGOR, Dec 17 — The state government has extended the duration of temporary licences for small traders by another six months, until June next year.
State executive councillor for local government Ng Sze Han said the initiative, originally intended to cease by the end of December, will be continued as part of the efforts to help those affected by Covid-19.
“Hopefully, the extension made by the state government will ease small traders’ affairs,” he said during the opening of Bestari Jaya Food Court, here today.
Ng said the initiative has proven the state government understands the difficulties faced by individuals who chose to run small businesses, after being hit by Covid-19.
“In Selangor, we have almost 200,000 small and medium traders. If the state does nothing to help them, the socioeconomic impact will be unimaginable.
"This is why last year the state government agreed to grant temporary licenses to those who wish to do business or trade in public areas, on condition they do not cause any disturbances," he said.
On July 3, Ng said 8,386 temporary licences from August last year to April this year were issued, to facilitate individuals affected by Covid-19 in conducting business.
Beginning in August last year, Selangor’s local authorities, starting with the Shah Alam City Council, issued temporary permits to unlicensed traders in a move to help those in low-income groups (B40) affected by Covid-19 to generate income.
Local authorities need to ensure that stalls sites are suitable, ensure they are safe,and not cause disturbances.
