SEGAMAT: An 88-year-old woman who was recently fined for selling vegetables without a licence at the Kampung Abdullah public market can now continue her daily routine legally.
Segamat MCA Youth chief Tay Kok Wea, who is also a councillor with the Segamat Municipal Council, said the trading licence was handed to Sim Giok Hong at her home on Thursday (Jan 29).
“This will allow the granny to continue selling vegetables at the market without worry. I have also borne all costs related to the licence on her behalf,” he said.
Tay added that his immediate priority was to ensure the elderly woman could continue earning a living in peace. He said he would also raise the matter at an upcoming council meeting to propose a token licence fee to ease her financial burden in the future.
He thanked members of the public for their concern, reminders and understanding following the incident, adding that he would continue doing his best to address livelihood-related issues.
Last Friday, Sim, who lives on her own, was issued a RM50 compound by a council enforcement officer for selling her produce without a licence.
The incident drew public attention after a member of the public shared it on social media. Tay said he then informed fellow councillor Eric Teo to go to the scene to assist.
“I paid the fine on her behalf as she is a helpless elderly woman who has been selling vegetables there to earn a living,” he said.
