GEORGE TOWN: Many of Penang’s “top-rate” hawkers are still having a hard time, with business dropping by at least 70% despite the easing up on regulations following the conditional movement control order (MCO).
Roti canai restaurant owner Naina Mohamed Mohamed Rowther, 52, said business has been greatly affected by the MCO.
“We used to sell around 200 pieces of roti canai in the mornings alone but now we barely sell 70 pieces a day.
“We only started allowing dine-ins today (yesterday) after much consideration.
“I am worried for my workers’ safety as well as our customers’.
“When the MCO was announced, we stopped business for three weeks and only allowed takeaways after that.
“Before our customers come in, we will take their temperature, ask them to sanitise their hands and jot down their personal details.
“Thankfully, business slowly picked up during Ramadan.
“Since there were no Ramadan bazaars, customers came to us to have their murtabak cravings fixed, ” he said at his restaurant in Lebuh Ah Quee yesterday.
Char kuey teow hawker in Penang Road Ong Cheng Choo, 61, said business was at its worst in her 35 years of selling one of Penang’s top comfort food.
“Business decreased by 80% to 90% since the MCO was announced.
“We started business on April 8 but only takeaways were allowed.
“Dine-ins were allowed since May 18 and though business has picked up, it’s still slow.
“During the good times, we could sell at least 300 plates during long weekends, but now, we can only manage 20 to 30 plates a day.
“To boost our business, my son posted our dish on social media to let customers know that we are operating.
“Many of the other hawkers decided not to operate as the returns would not even be enough to pay the helpers’ salaries.
“They rather stay at home and rest.
“I hope the vaccine for Covid-19 can be discovered quickly as many businesses are affected.
“We depend greatly on tourists and with interstate travels not allowed, our business is greatly affected, ” she said.
Ayer Itam laksa stall business partner Ang Kar Oon, 43, said they resumed business on May 8 but only provided takeaway and delivery services.
“Our business is down by at least 70%.
“If the customers want to dine in, we will deliver the noodles to a coffeeshop nearby. We work hand in hand with the coffeeshop.
“The customers will have to order drinks and we benefit mutually.
“As for those who want to take away, we advise them to keep a safe distance while waiting for the food and not stand too close to each other, ” she said.
Already a subscriber? Log in
Get 20% OFF The Star Digital Access
Cancel anytime. Ad-free. Unlimited access with perks.
