REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, PADANG -- Relocation of traders in various regions often triggered the turmoil and clashes. This problem did not occured in the Padang City, West Sumatra. Traders were voluntarily moved to the new location. 

How does the model approach? Padang Mayor H Mahyeldi Ansharullah SP explained the story behind the relocation that took place after the earthquake in Padang, 2009. "I invited the traders to talk about their desire and goal. I conveyed my plans on the relocation site," Mahyeldi said when accepting Deputy Chief Editor of Republika Nur Hasan Murtiaji, Wednesday (Feb 22) at the Mayor's official residence.

He said after knowing what they wanted and in response to the plan of the city administration, the traders immediately gave positive response. "We immediately build for floors Pasar Raya (grand market) and now it accommodates 6,000 traders," he said.

According to Mahyeldi, the traders need evidence not promise. He also gave a guarantee that the government has no interest other than managing the traders. After the earthquake on 2009, the trader lost their market place. Markets and shophouses were collapsed. Finally, they traded at the edge of the road and create problems to the city, among others congestion and bad scenery.  "Alhamdulilah (Thank God), we held a discussion on the location of the Pasar Raya while eating together. When the inauguration, we even ate together," he said.

He admitted to move 6,000 traders was not an easy job. But, he said the most important thing was to work with good intentions. "We did not lie to people or traders. If we did, people will suspected whatever program will be implemented. We invited traders in the construction process of Pasar Raya, so that they knew and gave support," he said.

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