JASIN: About eight food stalls, including seven at the Pantai Siring food court in Pulai near here, were damaged in a storm that struck the area early Sunday morning (June 29).
The food court's owner, Noraini Mat Diah, 63, said the incident was first noticed by guests staying at a nearby resort around 1am.
She said visitors reported seeing what appeared to be a whirlwind, despite only light rain at the time. The storm destroyed the food court's roof structure, damaged its electrical wiring and brought down a nearby electricity pole.
"Repairs may take up to two weeks," she said, estimating losses at over RM10,000.
Noraini said the storm not only disrupted the traders' livelihoods but also affected tourism activities in Pantai Siring, a popular destination during weekend and holidays.
Food vendor Siti Roslida Mat Rusli, 39, said she had just closed her stall at 11pm and was on her way home when she was informed of the incident through the traders' group chat.
"My husband and I rushed back to the stall and found tables and chairs scattered, and the roof partially torn off. Due to this incident, we may not be able to operate for a while, which will definitely affect our livelihood," she said.
Another vendor, Nor Hazalina Abd Rashid, 44, said her putu bambu stall was badly damaged, resulting in losses of over RM3,000.
She said she was in Kuala Lumpur when she received the news and immediately returned, only to find her zinc-roofed stall in ruins.
"This stall is our main source of income as the area attracts many tourists, especially on weekends. I was supposed to open for business today, but the stall is destroyed. I can only accept this as fate," she said. - Bernama
