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Hard times for hawkers, traders

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MIRI: After the movement control order (MCO) following the Covid-19 pandemic, many hawkers or small-time traders are struggling to survive.

For the past three months, since March 18, Malaysia had been under partial lockdown to contain the spread of Covid-19.

During this period, most business activities were banned and forced to temporarily close down.

Dayang Rohana Awang Hamdan (Hawker)

Dayang Rohana Awang Hamdan (Hawker) 

‘The business is picking up slowly. Customers have been starting to come since the end of June and it is a huge relief. I have been running my small stall for the past 10 years.

‘Fortunately, I received the BKSS aid from the state government and it was a relief.  I have also received the state government’s RM1,500 Sarawakku Sayang Special Assistance (BKSS) aid.’

Zainah Zaini (Hawker)

Zainah Zaini (Hawker)

‘People are still staying away from hawker centres but I hope they will come. I’m grateful that we were allowed to resume our businesses.’

Suriani Hamdan (Hawker)

Suriani Hamdan (Hawker)

‘The Covid-19 pandemic and the partial lockdown have badly affected hawkers but we hope the situation will improve because most of us are struggling to survive. Most of the time, we have to think positively to cope with our daily needs.’

Rata Dom (Hawker)

Rata Dom (Hawker)

“Business has gone down by 60 percent. Sometimes, we don’t have enough income after paying our bills and rental. But I do hope that we will be able to recover from the crisis. I have not received any government aid following the Covid-19 pandemic.’

Cr Tan Lik Jin (Owner of computer service centre)

Cr Tan Lik Jin (Owner of computer service centre)

“We are happy to learn we can resume business during the recovery movement control order (RMCO). Most of our businesses have been been closed for nearly four months and we did not have any income. The business is slowly picking up.’

Ismawati Abdullah (Food stall owner)

Ismawati Abdullah (Food stall owner)

“I am grateful I can reopen my stall. At least, I have some money to pay for the rental and essential bills and I can buy food for my family. Since I resumed business three weeks ago, most of myregular customers have returned.’

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