By Suhaila Shahrul Annuar
SHAH ALAM, July 13 — The redevelopment of the Jalan Othman Market Complex in Petaling Jaya should be carried out through a complete rebuild with modern facilities and a more organised design.
Bukit Gasing state assemblyman Rajiv Rishyakaran said the initiative aims to ensure optimal comfort and convenience for both traders and visitors to the market, which is over 30 years old.
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Bukit Gasing state assemblyman Rajiv Rishyakaran speaks during Media Selangor's 'Skop: Selangor Kan Ada!' programme at the State Secretariat Building in Shah Alam, on July 10, 2025. — Picture by REMY ARIFIN /MEDIA SELANGOR[/caption]
“My recommendation to the Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) is based on the clear need for redevelopment. The time has come to rebuild the market as its condition and structure make improvements (or repairs) extremely difficult due to the building’s age.
“We need a more modern structure, and this matter has been discussed for over a decade. Perhaps in the past, traders were not ready for relocation during reconstruction, but I believe all parties are now in agreement,” he told Media Selangor.
Rajiv said the new structure will provide upgraded facilities that meet current needs, benefitting both vendors and visitors.
“With the redevelopment, the facilities will certainly be improved. For example, the current parking area is located upstairs, but there is no lift, which makes access difficult for the elderly.
“Any new construction will definitely come with added advantages and more comprehensive amenities. This is a modernisation project for Petaling Jaya,” he said.
Rajiv also welcomed the suggestion to redevelop the Jalan Othman Market Complex based on a multi-functional ecosystem concept aimed at community integration, as proposed by Petaling Jaya MP Lee Chean Chung.
However, he echoed the sentiments of traders and visitors previously interviewed by Media Selangor, who emphasised the importance of simultaneously improving basic infrastructure, especially adequate parking, to cater to the expected increase in visitors while ensuring comfort and convenience for all users.
“If there is budget to add sporting or busking (arts) elements, I am not against it, but my priority is to ensure the market is built correctly and is complete.
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Petaling Jaya MP Lee Chean Chung speaks to the media at the Lembah Subang 1 People’s Housing Project, Petaling Jaya, on June 23, 2023. — Picture by NUR ADIBAH AHMAD IZAM/SELANGORKINI[/caption]
“The main priority is to have a modern and comfortable market for traders and customers alike,” Rajiv said.
Previously, Lee said the Recovery Plan would be implemented in phases using a community-based approach to ensure that development of the historic site remains inclusive, organised, and sustainable.
He added that the initiative was developed following engagement sessions with traders in April, as well as a recent roundtable discussion involving more than 30 participants from diverse backgrounds, during which a range of proposals was submitted.
These included multipurpose spaces, a community exhibition gallery, arts workshops, and collaborative areas for educational institutions and local residents.
Lee also noted that the proposed multi-functional ecosystem, blending traditional and contemporary elements, has the potential to attract a diverse range of visitors while ensuring the market's long-term sustainability.
