‘Adopt balanced approach when handling unlicensed S'gor traders'

The Star

5 hours ago

A BALANCED approach, which upholds the law should be adopted when tackling unlicensed hawkers in Selangor.
Sungai Buloh Umno legal and electoral bureau head Adzly Ab Manas said the state government and local authorities should also promote social inclusiveness.
He said enforcement actions were insufficient to deal with the issue, which was increasingly complex and challenging.
'The challenge is not solely about legality or city planning. It is also deeply associated with aspects such as economic survival, bureaucratic obstacles and the public's right to livelihood.
'Proactive reforms and empathetic engagement with micro-entrepreneurs must be the standard when dealing with this issue,' he said.
He also said while the Local Government Act 1976 (Act 171), Food Act 1983 and other local council by-laws required hawkers to obtain licences and follow specific health and safety regulations, many were forced to operate informally due to various problems.
'These problems include lengthy and rigid licensing procedures, delayed site approvals, lack of designated trading spaces in high-demand urban areas, financial constraints among B40 traders and poor legal awareness, especially among the elderly and foreign-born citizens,' he said.
He urged the authorities to introduce temporary or daily trade passes and 'mobile licences' for new or low-income hawkers.
'Controlled trading zones should also be declared under Section 101 of Act 171 to avoid blanket prohibitions and allow managed and rotational hawking.
'The authorities should also shift from punitive actions to advisory and corrective methods, including the introduction of a 'Hawker Verification Pro­gramme' for legal transition support.
'Centres for legal briefings, fast-track licensing and free legal clinics in collaboration with non-governmental organisations and the Bar Council should also be established.'
He said unlicensed hawkers must be seen not as criminals, but as essential contributors to the urban micro-economy.
'Under Articles 5 and 8 of the Federal Constitution, every citizen has the right to livelihood and equal treatment under the law.
'A fair law does not criminalise poverty, but creates paths for legal participation.
'The Selangor government and local authorities in the state must lead with compassion and initiate legal reforms on this matter.
'We must ensure that every hawker, regardless of capital or background, has the right to trade with dignity and legality.'
Adzly said he was ready to work with all stakeholders, to create policy solutions that honour both the law and the people.