By P. Chandra Sagaran
The Ipoh Central Market is set to be given a facelift and fresh look as five finalists had submitted their design ideas to the panel of judges on May 20.
Ipoh City Mayor Zamakhshari Hanipah officiated the presentation session for the finalists of the competition.
The winner is expected to be announced on May 27 in conjunction with the 37th anniversary of Ipoh City status.
The competition for the new design was opened on March 17 this year.
The Housing and Local Government Ministry had allocated a sum of RM15 million to the Ipoh City Council (MBI) to upgrade the market.
An amount of RM500,000 had been allocated by the ministry this year.
The judges comprise professionals from related fields, Ipoh City Council councillors and council senior officers.
The focus of the design of the market is a pedestrian friendly concept and fulfill environmental sustainability and energy efficiency.
With a new look market, it is expected to attract more visitors to its uniqueness.
The competition would be the benchmark for other projects to hold competitions in selecting designs.