Kelantan Greenlights 52 Ramadan Bazaar Sites for 2026 Season

KUALA LUMPUR – The Kelantan state government has finalized the selection of 52 Ramadan bazaar locations across the state, marking a significant preparation for the upcoming 2026 fasting month. This initiative is expected to provide a vital economic platform for thousands of small-scale entrepreneurs and local traders.

The announcement, made by State Local Government, Housing, Health, and Environment Committee Chairman Hilmi Abdullah, confirms that a total of 3,771 commercial stalls have been approved for operation. These sites are strategically distributed across every district in Kelantan to ensure that both traders and consumers have convenient access to festive essentials and Iftar meals.

The management of these bazaars will be a collaborative effort between the various Local Authorities (PBT) and appointed private organizers. By decentralizing the locations, the state aims to stimulate micro-economies within individual districts, from the bustling urban center of Kota Bharu to the more rural reaches of Dabong and Jeli.

The distribution of the 3,771 stalls highlights the scale of the operation:

• Kota Bharu Municipal Council (MPKB-BRI): Leads the state with 14 bazaar locations housing 1,115 stalls.
• Ketereh District Council: Has allocated 779 stalls across five primary sites.
• Tumpat District Council: Will oversee 274 stalls at four designated locations.

Other districts are also contributing significantly to the bazaar ecosystem. Notable allocations include Machang (261 stalls), Tanah Merah (252), and Pasir Puteh (241). Smaller hubs like Kuala Krai, Pasir Mas, Bachok, and Gua Musang will also host hundreds of traders, ensuring a wide geographical reach for the seasonal festivities.

To maintain fairness and accessibility for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), rental rates have been established based on the specific location and the managing body. Current rates for a single lot range from RM290 to RM550. These fees cover the logistics and maintenance provided by the PBTs and organizers throughout the month-long period.

Beyond the financial aspects, the state government is placing a heavy emphasis on operational excellence. Hilmi Abdullah reassured the public that the PBTs would be tasked with rigorous oversight to prevent common issues associated with large-scale public gatherings.

“The state government, through our local authorities, is committed to ensuring that these bazaars are managed with the highest standards of cleanliness and food safety,” Hilmi stated. “We are also coordinating closely to ensure smooth traffic flow around the more high-traffic bazaar sites.”

In addition to logistics, the state will implement a regular monitoring system. Enforcement officers will be deployed to ensure that all vendors comply with licensing conditions, health regulations, and price display requirements. This proactive approach is designed to protect consumers while maintaining the integrity of the Ramadan bazaar tradition in Kelantan.

By providing nearly 4,000 opportunities for trade, the Kelantan government hopes to foster a vibrant atmosphere that balances religious observance with community commerce, ultimately benefiting the state’s socio-economic landscape.