After having lost to Thailand in the sense of tourism, it’s obvious that Malaysia is doing everything we can to try and garner some sort of attention through tourist attractions, even if it is only to attract locals to vacation within our own country.
But due to many bad experiences, Malaysians are starting to doubt not only the capabilities of the local authorities but also our fellow Malaysians when it comes to behaving appropriately at these tourist spots.
The Amran Fans Twitter page recently shared a post in regards to a potential floating market at Taman Rempah, Melaka.
They wrote, “Melaka will soon have a floating market. Don’t know if these are boats or canoes. What’s sure is that they’re ready.”
In the image they showcased, little boats could be seen attached to a river bank. In all honesty, we’re not sure if it’s really going to be a floating market or another sort of tourist attraction.
Though, what we can confirm is that Malaysians don’t think a tourist attraction at the river is a good idea for a multitude of reasons.
For starters, it could cause pollution to the river.
“I think this might be temporary. Many don’t know how to manage the cleanliness. They’ll end up throwing cooking oil and dirty water into the river.”
“As long as they don’t convert the river into a trash can.”
Others pointed out that everything (from the price of renting the boats to the food and drinks sold by the vendors) might end up being expensive.
“If it’s really a floating market, I’m sure the food prices are going to be expensive.”
“It’s supposed to already be open but many vendors don’t want to join because it’s expensive.”
“The equation is easy, if the rental space is expensive, then it is confirmed that the food prices are also going to be expensive.”
Ultimately, people believe that a floating market would be too much of an imitation of the ones in Thailand, and that the sales of food and drinks there may turn the river (that apparently already smells bad) into a dumpsite.
What do you think of the idea of a floating market in Melaka? Do feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section.
Also read: “RM15 to RM50” – M’sian Questions Why Food Festival Prices are So Expensive!
