KOTA KINABALU: Some 50,000 people are expected to converge in Donggongon when the Prime Minister launches the Hawkers and Small Traders Carnival (HPPK) 2023 on Thursday.

Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will launch the three-day event at 1pm at Buhavan Square in Donggongon, Penampang, about 15km from here.

Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick said there will be more than 300 booths from 50 exhibitors, 30 food trucks, 190 stalls for small traders and entrepreneurs as well as 14 booths offering various products such as food and beverages, crafts, clothing and more.

“Madani Cooperative Sales, Fama (Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority) and Rahmah Sales will also be held to provide visitors with the opportunity to buy daily necessities at prices lower than the usual market rates,” he said in a statement yesterday.

He said some 50,000 people are expected to throng the event that features various other activities.

“There will also be lucky draws with attractive prizes such as electrical appliances, vouchers and hampers.

“In addition, there are cooking contests, colouring activity, karaoke, Mobile Legend competition, and a mini 4WD car competition, entrepreneurship lectures from ministry agencies, health check-ups and haircut services,” he said.

Benedick said the Aramai Boh Concert will be held on the second day (Friday) from 8pm to 10pm at the main stage of the square.

“The guest artistes are Stacy, Akim, Esther Applunius, Elica Paujin, Jimmy Palikat, Benn Simon, Lyron Felix, Mary Intiang, Raitim Sitim and Martha Ginun, and the live band is Cun-Cun & The Brothers,” he added.

In view of the anticipated large crowds and to avoid congestion, Benedick said six HPPK 2023 buses will be provided to pick up and drop off visitors from ITCC to Buhavan Square.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2023/12/05/pm-to-launch-hawker-carnival-in-penampang