I REFER to the Oct 13 editorial, ‘Wet markets and the forces of change’, which recapped the current controversy over the impending closure of several wet markets as a result of acquisitions by supermarket chains.
While I agree that wet markets are often ‘wet and smelly’ places to shop for fresh produce, fish and meat, the root causes of the dampness and odours have to be addressed. From what I see at the Serangoon Avenue 3 wet market, where I shop twice a week, poor design and construction, age and poor maintenance by the current operator are to blame.
This market stands in sharp contrast to the recently renovated markets in Tampines and Bedok. These are clean, neat and well ventilated. The stallholders have well-designed stalls where they can store raw or cooked food properly, display their wares and ensure that waste is properly managed.
Wet markets are far from becoming relics from a bygone age. They are relevant to 21st-century Singapore and meet the needs of residents in the estates around them. For instance, the Serangoon Avenue 3 wet market services a large residential area comprising HDB flats, private condominiums and houses in Upper Serangoon, Braddell and Serangoon Gardens estates. Customers of the wet market comprise young working adults, expatriates and the elderly. Continue reading
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