At the occasion of the recent Mooncake Festival, the president of the Kuching Old Market Community Association drew attention to the changes that Carpenter Street is going through and recalls the proposal to make it street pedestrian to enhance its heritage and tourism value :

“He said (Carpenter Street) was experiencing a revival of sorts with the setting up of many affordable lodging as well as hip night spots, which appealed to young foreign tourists. “Carpenter Street was set up by Chinese traders some 140 years ago. It is changing with time. The street is no longer filled with Chinese-owned shops. Other races are setting up businesses to cater to tourists. This is good for Carpenter Street, and it deserves to be better promoted as it has historical value and tourist potential.

Sim said about 20 years ago there was a proposal to turn Carpenter Street into a pedestrian mall, like India Street, but business owners disliked the idea. But in view of changes in the area, including its proximity to the Plaza Merdeka shopping mall, he said business owners might welcome the proposal, if it were raised again.”

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Borneo Post, September 9, 2014

“Sim: Do more to promote Carpenter Street’s appeal”