‘Provide designated spaces in JB for food trucks’

JOHOR Baru residents are unhappy that food trucks are using parking bays at busy commercial areas such as Taman Pelangi, thus depriving other motorists of space.

Tuition teacher Rachel Wong, 30, said, “The food trucks are parked there during the day even though they start operating in the evening.

“Many people visit Taman Pelangi because of the various food and beverage outlets.

“I usually have to drive around the block several times to find a vacant parking spot.

“The food truck operators should park somewhere else, to free up the bays for others.”

Self-employed Shahril Hassan, 35, urged the authorities to consider having designated areas for roadside traders in the city.

“I noticed many makeshift stalls selling food near the entrance of petrol stations and even by a main road near the exit of the Causeway.

“Motorcyclists are often seen crowding around the stalls during peak periods.

“Accidents may happen as other motorists have to navigate the area carefully to avoid knocking into anyone.

“The stalls should be set up in safer spots,” he added.

Johor Baru City Council (MBJB) Pelangi Indah zone councillor Norizam Shah said many property developments today did not have proper spaces designated for traders who operated without a shop.

“Apart from parking bays, these small businesses pop up on road shoulders or near junctions, which is dangerous,” he said, adding that he raised the matter at a full board meeting.

He also encouraged traders to obtain a business licence from the local council before setting up shop.

“Many people have the misconception that it is difficult to get a business licence. Some even hire agents or third-party sources to obtain one.

“Unfortunately, they end up paying extra to them (third parties) when in fact it is quite easy and inexpensive to get a licence from the local council,” he said.

Norizam had suggested MBJB’s corporate unit disseminate more information about licence applications, via customer service counters, to eliminate any misunderstanding.