10,000 DBKL Traders to Receive 50% Rental Discount for Two Years
PUTRAJAYA: Around 10,000 traders operating under Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) will benefit from a 50 per cent reduction in rental rates for a period of two years, as part of the government’s effort to ease rising operating costs.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories), Hannah Yeoh, said the initiative covers a wide range of business premises, including hawker stalls, food courts and other facilities managed by DBKL.
She noted that the rental reduction took effect on April 1 and will remain in place until Dec 31, 2027, providing medium-term financial relief for small traders affected by increasing living costs and fuel prices.
“The measure is aimed at helping traders sustain their businesses in the current economic climate. We recognise the pressures they are facing, particularly with rising fuel and operational costs,” she told reporters after launching the Putrajaya Aktif programme here.
According to her, DBKL and Labuan Corporation are among the earliest local authorities to introduce rental relief measures in response to cost pressures faced by traders.
The decision was made after considering feedback from business operators and the need to support small enterprises, which play a vital role in the urban economy.
Rental Relief Prioritised Over Other Subsidies
Hannah explained that the government is currently prioritising rental reductions over other forms of subsidies, as the approach offers more direct and immediate financial relief.
However, she acknowledged that the move would impact the revenue of local authorities, which will need to identify alternative income sources to offset rising operational expenses.
“When rental is reduced, we must also look at other revenue streams, especially as operating costs continue to increase due to factors such as fuel prices,” she said.
Meanwhile, Putrajaya Corporation is still assessing the most suitable approach before implementing similar measures, including the possibility of additional forms of assistance beyond rental discounts.
She said any decision would be based on a comprehensive evaluation to ensure that support measures are effective while maintaining financial sustainability.
Free Sports Programme to Tackle Childhood Obesity
On the Putrajaya Aktif programme, Hannah said the government has also introduced free sports classes aimed at addressing obesity among children.
The initiative includes activities such as sepak takraw and skipping, chosen for their low cost and ease of practice at home.
The classes will be held twice a month—on the second and fourth weeks—across four locations in Putrajaya, with around 50 participants per session.
The programme will run throughout the year, with the aim of promoting healthier lifestyles among young people and raising awareness about the importance of physical activity.
Overall, the rental reduction initiative and community programmes reflect the government’s broader efforts to ease cost-of-living pressures while promoting social well-being in urban areas.
-wilayah.com.my
