In six months these stalls, one of the main attractions to visitors of Kuala Terengganu, will be moved to temporary premises while the current Pasar Payang will be demolished to be replaced by a shopping mall-styled four storey air-conditioned complex, at a different location. This new complex will be ready in two years.
Can’t say I agree with this one. Part of the allure of Pasar Payang is it’s maze-like setting. The pleasure of feasting your eyes on traditional food stuff at every inch of space, stacked high up at every corner with traders overflowing the place out onto the street fronting the establishment is an atmosphere unique to the place.
Having the sea breeze blow the little trickles of sweat on your forehead as you exit with both hands overworked with plastic bags full of Terengganu delights is a pleasure on its own.
I guess the Terengganu government don’t see it that way. Yet again, the traditional is forced out by the modern. Another bit of heritage soon to be lost.
– The Adventures of Kelong Jimmy
