THE Ipoh Central Market at Jalan Dato Onn Jaafar, Ipoh, is set to be revitalised with a “market in a park” concept.

The concept was selected as the winning entry at a design competition held following the Housing and Local Government Ministry’s plan to upgrade markets in the country.

The winner Tan Bee Eu is the founder of Penang-based architectural firm BEu Tan Architect (Beta).

She said the market would have more public spaces and be surrounded by greenery.

“We conducted multiple site visits to understand the problems and scenario at the existing market premises.

“Our goal was not only to address the problems faced by the ageing market but to also reimagine it as a vibrant new landmark for the city,” she told reporters at an executive talk event organised by Ipoh City Council at the Ipoh Convention Centre in Greentown.

Beta was announced the winner of the competition at the event held in conjunction with the city’s 37th anniversary celebration.

Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming had earlier this year said the Ipoh market would be given a major upgrade.

About RM15mil was allocated to transform it into a landmark resembling the iconic Kuala Lumpur Central Market.

The project was the ministry’s initiative to revitalise heritage markets of over 50 years old.

Tan said the Ipoh Central Market was strategically located but “looked tired”.

“This revitalisation is timely and offers an opportunity to transform it into something iconic,” she said.

“Our project will transform the marketplace into a space for everyone, similar to a ‘market in a park’ concept.

“We’ve included plenty of public areas, such as playground for children and meeting spots for the elderly, to make it more community-focused.”

Tan said the market’s existing courtyard would be turned into a public square with an amphitheatre, spaces for bazaars and long-running community activities.

“It’s similar to how atriums in shopping malls function as gathering points.

“The courtyard will also be surrounded by greenery and lots of trees,” she added.

Ipoh mayor Zamakhshari Hanipah said upgrading works for the market would start by this year.

The new mayor thanked his predecessor Datuk Rumaizi Baharin for laying a strong foundation and positioning Ipoh as a symbol of success.

“As the new mayor, I intend to return to basics by reevaluating the core responsibilities and role of a local authority,” he added.

Zamakhshari said the five areas of focus are cleanliness, waste management, roads, street lighting and drainage, as the main issues often raised by the residents.

“We have been receiving various complaints regarding these services.

“As a local authority, we are entrusted with collecting assessment taxes and returning that value to the people through quality services.

“The people of Ipoh are our stakeholders and it is our duty to serve them.

“That is my vision throughout my term as the mayor of Ipoh.”