KUCHING: There are no words to describe how grateful Hadiah Suhaili from Kpg Semariang was when she received financial assistance under the Sarawakku Sayang Special Assistance (BKSS) from the state government.
Speaking to New Sarawak Tribune on Wednesday, the 54-year old mother, who worked as a food caterer, said business had been poor for her.
“I’m only a small businesswoman who provides food catering service.
“During the lockdown, many of my customers had to postpone and cancel their weddings. A small caterer like me does not charge security deposit upon reservations. When customers cancel events last minute, I face a big loss because I already bought the ingredients” she explained.
Hadiah said Sarawakians were fortunate to have a good state leader like Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“I am grateful for this financial aid, especially at a time like this. I will spend it on my children’s educational needs.
Sawoi Anee, 65, who runs a bus school company, was also grateful for the government assistance.
“Our chief minister is indeed a leader with a big heart. He understands our needs,” she said.
Another recipient, Nor Ali, 62, who works as a ‘penambang’ (river taxi) operator, was also thankful for the aid.
“If I don’t go out, there will be nothing on the table,” he said, adding that previously he could earn about RM60 per day.
“Sometimes, I earned about RM100 per day, especially during the peak season when tourists flooded the city.
“But since March, when the lockdown was enforced, there has been none. Zero passenger, zero outcome.”
Christian Wonder, 21, who had just completed his studies at UiTM Rembau in Negeri Sembilan, said the government assistance will help him to further his studies.
“It is not easy to find jobs nowadays. But no matter how hard it is, we must continue to strive. I believe I will make it through,” he said.
