KANOWIT: As streets turn into waterways due to worsening floods in Kanowit, one resilient hawker has found a way to continue her business despite the disaster.
A woman, wearing a traditional straw hat, has been seen using a small boat to sell bean curd to flood-stricken residents.
An image of her navigating the floodwaters with trays of neatly arranged fried bean curd and a weighing scale has gone viral on social media, drawing admiration from netizens who liken her efforts to the floating markets of Thailand.
With motorcycles and shops partially submerged, the woman's makeshift floating stall has become a symbol of perseverance.
She continues serving customers by handing them food from her boat while receiving payments from those standing on higher ground.
Many social media users have praised her adaptability, calling her an inspiration in the face of adversity.
Kanowit has been experiencing heavy rainfall over the past few days, leading to rising water levels that have disrupted daily activities.
Residents are urged to stay safe and take necessary precautions as authorities continue to monitor the situation.
For now, as floodwaters persist, this woman’s boat not only keeps her livelihood afloat but also brings a sense of resilience to a town grappling with nature’s challenges.
A photo of the woman was uploaded by netizen Mei Zheng on Facebook on Thursday (March 20).
One netizen, Emily Ho, jokingly commented that Kanowit residents no longer need to travel to Thailand to experience a floating market, as "Kanowit has its own floating market."
Another netizen, Judah Iskariah, added: "On the bright side, this could become one of Kanowit's tourism attractions. Instead of shutting down businesses, this idea could provide income for hawkers during a crisis. Those unable to go out to buy food and basic necessities would surely appreciate any available goods to sustain themselves throughout the floods."
