SANDAKAN: The Car Boot Sale Night Market programme in Sandakan city centre is seen as a new initiative to revitalise economic activities and attract more visitors to the area.
Sandakan Municipal Council (MPS) President Datuk Walter Kenson said the initiative provides local traders and youths with opportunities to explore a more relaxed, creative and flexible business concept.
He said the programme also allows youths to generate additional income by using their existing vehicles to sell goods and products.
“The initiative could also attract more visitors, including tourists from outside the district,” he said.
Walter said this after launching the Car Boot Sale Night Market, organised by the Persatuan Dokumentari & Filem Sandakan at Lorong Harbour Square, next to The Elopura Hotel, here, Saturday.
Also present were the association’s chairman Datuk Md Afendi Hamdan, Walter’s wife Datin Ivy Wong, Sandakan Immigration Department chief Tajul Aripin Mohammed Mokhtar, a representative from Ormond Hotel and other guests.
A total of 20 lots are available for the Car Boot Sale, which will be held every Saturday from 4pm to midnight, starting September 5, 2026.
Walter said he hoped the programme would achieve its objectives and welcomed similar initiatives to further enliven Sandakan city centre.
He said the Car Boot Sale was a new experiment aimed at restoring the vibrancy of the city centre, not only during festive seasons but throughout the year.
He also invited city centre shop owners and members of the public to attend the MPS Town Hall Programme on August 27 at 8am at the Sandakan Community Hall to discuss the district’s economic development.
Earlier, Afendi said the idea was initiated to bring Sandakan city centre back to life, particularly its night-time atmosphere.
He said the programme would provide opportunities for youths and traders to showcase unique products, including food, beverages and other goods, while generating additional income.
Afendi also thanked Walter for his continued support for efforts to revitalise Sandakan city centre.
