MCO: How this Malaysian mother gets 90% of her household needs online

To stay safe during the pandemic, Eu and her son Teioh Wu Yang have been buying books and stationery via online platforms. Photo: Eunice Eu

It’s been a week since the second movement control order (MCO) has been implemented and this time round, mother-of-two Eunice Eu, 46, is a lot more prepared for it.

The Petaling Jaya-based administrative executive didn't resort to panic-buying or feel the need to rush to the market early in the morning to buy fresh meat.

Since last year, Eu has gravitated towards e-shopping, which has saved her the trouble of physically going to her favourite brick-and-mortar stores and supermarkets.

Now, almost 90% of her household needs are obtained via online shopping, which she feels is a safer option amidst the Covid-19 pandemic.

“During the first MCO, many people rushed to stock up on essential items. Due to panic buying, a number of dried food items and vegetables were snapped up very quickly. I remembered how my friends rushed to the market at 5am just to buy fresh meat! It was a stressful time for many Malaysians, ” said Eu over a phone interview.

Online shopping has become very easy and convenient, says Eu. Photo: macrovector

Eu says the availability of various online shopping sites and social media platforms, including Instagram and Facebook, has made life a lot easier.

"With a few clicks of the mouse, I can purchase everything needed for the household. Through social media and chat groups, I have managed to connect with some reliable sources and sellers.

"Online shopping has become very easy and convenient. After the first MCO was lifted, shopping for groceries online became part of my new normal. I no longer needed to go to the wet market for fresh produce," said Eu.

Even her 11-year-old son Teoih Wu Yang's school needs are bought online.

"All his books, stationery and art materials have been purchased online. My son and I enjoy browsing through e-bookstores to choose his favourite books. He's even picked up a new skill of online sketch drawing too.

“Online sales can also be cheaper and buyers are spoilt for choice. It saves us the hassle of going to different places physically. During the MCO period, it’s best to stay home and stay safe, ” she explained.