PUTRAJAYA (May 8): Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming has dismissed claims that the ministry’s MyKiosk project has become a white elephant. Speaking to reporters after the ministry’s 2024 Excellence Appreciation Ceremony here on Thursday, Nga stated, "Not true (the white elephant allegation). The majority have been filled; only a few are not yet in operation." He emphasized that instructions have already been issued by the Department of Local Government for all 7,000 kiosks nationwide to be fully utilized.
Nga further explained that the MyKiosk project is implemented based on applications through local authorities, with priority given to small traders, particularly those operating illegally by the roadside. "With MyKiosk, we are ‘legalising’ their businesses by offering free rental for the first six months and a maximum rental rate of RM10 per day," he added.
His comments came in response to criticism from Bersatu information chief Datuk Tun Faisal Ismail Aziz, who had labeled the MyKiosk project as wasteful and ineffective. The initiative is designed to assist the bottom 40% income group and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by providing standardized, safe, and comfortable business spaces. This project aims to boost the income and socio-economic status of local communities by offering low-rent kiosks.
As of December 2024, a total of 7,243 MyKiosk units had been approved across 133 local authorities nationwide, reportedly benefiting over 7,000 families. The program is part of the government's broader strategy to support local businesses and enhance the livelihoods of those in the lower-income brackets.
Nga's remarks reflect a commitment from the ministry to ensure that the MyKiosk initiative meets its objectives and serves the communities it was designed for. The minister reiterated the importance of utilizing these kiosks effectively, stating that they represent a significant opportunity for small traders to formalize their businesses and gain access to safer and more stable operating environments.
In a landscape where many small traders struggle with high rental costs and regulatory hurdles, the MyKiosk project stands out as a government initiative aimed at alleviating some of these pressures. By providing a pathway for informal traders to transition into formal businesses, the project not only helps individuals but also contributes to the overall economic health of communities.
The response from the minister is crucial amid ongoing discussions about government spending and the effectiveness of social programs. Critics like Tun Faisal Ismail Aziz have raised concerns about the efficiency of such initiatives, questioning whether they truly benefit the intended recipients or merely serve as a facade for government action.
However, Nga remains steadfast in his defense of the MyKiosk project, asserting that the majority of kiosks are operational and fulfilling their intended purpose. "We are monitoring the situation closely and will continue to work with local authorities to ensure that these kiosks are utilized effectively," he said.
This initiative is part of a larger movement within the government to support local economies and reduce the number of informal businesses operating without proper licenses. By providing a legal framework and support for small traders, the MyKiosk project seeks to create a more structured and sustainable environment for these businesses to thrive.
As the government continues to navigate the complexities of economic recovery post-pandemic, initiatives like MyKiosk are essential in addressing the needs of vulnerable populations and fostering resilience within local economies. The success of such programs will depend on ongoing engagement with stakeholders and a commitment to transparency and accountability.
In conclusion, while criticisms persist regarding the effectiveness of the MyKiosk project, the government's efforts to provide low-cost, accessible business opportunities for small traders represent a significant step toward fostering economic inclusion and supporting the livelihoods of those in need.
