Essentials all snapped up in Penang markets after controlled movement order

GEORGE TOWN: People flocked the market as early as 5am to buy groceries after the Prime Minister announced the movement control order on Monday night (March 16).

A trader, who wished to be known as Tan, 59, was smiling from ear to ear as his vegetables were sold out before 8.30am on Tuesday (March 17).

“People came to the market as early as 5am.

“I have been selling vegetables for more than 36 years, and this is the first time my goods were sold out so early.

“The crowd was bigger compared to during Chinese New Year.

“After the announcement yesterday night (March 16), I decided to bring in 20% more vegetables than usual, and it was all sold out, ” he said when met at Chowrasta Market in Penang Road here.

There were beelines at the stalls selling poultry, eggs, vegetables and dry items.

Penang Chowrasta Bazaar Traders Association chairman Mohamed Nasir Mohideen said this was the first time he was seeing such a huge crowd.

“We have more than 100% of the usual crowd, and the community consisting of all races were here to do grocery shopping.

“During the festive season, only a certain community will be here, but today we see people from different races buying groceries, ” he said.

Mohamed Nasir urged the public not to be nervous or panic and buy only what was needed.

Meanwhile, housewife Noorjahan Abdul, 57, was seen shopping casually at the market.

“I usually come to the market two days once, as I stay nearby.

“I am not worried as the government has assured that markets will be open.