KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 2 — The relocation of 98 traders from the Seri Semarak Small and Medium Industry (SMI) premises in Setapak Jaya is moving towards a resolution, with the developer offering ex-gratia payments and relocation assistance while three alternative sites have been identified.

Setiawangsa Parliamentary Zone Coordinator Datuk Afdlin Shauki Aksan said the commitments were reached through intensive negotiations involving various parties, including government agencies and developer 59 Inc Sdn Bhd.

He said the 98 affected business operators, who have operated in the area for 31 years, would be able to choose from three alternative sites owned by the Land and Mines Office (PTG).

“Our approach from the outset has not been about determining who wins or loses, but finding a middle ground. The business operators accept that they need to vacate the area to make way for development, while the developer is prepared to assist with the transition through ex-gratia payments and relocation assistance.