Parti Warisan vice-president Junz Wong has urged the Sabah government to conduct a formal heritage assessment of Kota Kinabalu Central Market before proceeding with any decision to relocate the landmark.

Wong said the market, which dates back to the 1970s, had served generations of residents and formed an important part of the city’s historical, cultural and commercial identity.

He said its significance should be assessed, including whether it qualifies for protection under the State Heritage Enactment 2017.

“The Central Market is not merely an ageing building that can be demolished or relocated without considering its historical and cultural significance. It is part of Kota Kinabalu’s living heritage, where generations of traders have earned their livelihoods and countless visitors have experienced our local culture,” he said in a statement on Monday.

Wong said heritage conservation should not come at the expense of modernisation, adding that the market needed better sanitation, drainage, ventilation, parking and facilities for traders and visitors.

“Nobody is against modernisation. Kota Kinabalu deserves a cleaner, safer and more efficient Central Market,” he said.

“But why must modernisation automatically mean relocation? Has the government seriously examined whether the existing market can be upgraded or redeveloped in phases while preserving its historical character and strategic waterfront location?” he asked.

He also called for a cost-benefit analysis comparing the upgrading of the existing market with the construction of a new facility elsewhere.

Wong said relocating the market could disrupt an established trading ecosystem involving fishmongers, vegetable sellers, hawkers, suppliers and surrounding businesses.

He questioned whether Kota Kinabalu City Hall had consulted affected traders and conducted an independent socioeconomic impact assessment.

“What assurances can the government provide that traders will not suffer higher rentals, declining customer traffic or reduced incomes? Have their views been properly heard before such a major decision is made?” he asked.

Wong also called for the government to disclose its plans for the existing waterfront site, including relocation costs, financing arrangements and feasibility studies.

“A city is not defined merely by its modern buildings, but also by the history, culture and traditions that give it character. Once an important part of that heritage is lost, it may never be recovered,” he said.

He urged the state government and city hall to make relevant studies and consultation findings public before making any irreversible decision on the market’s future.