ALTHOUGH dining-in has been allowed for fully vaccinated individuals in Penang, many hawkers and restaurateurs are not taking their chances just yet due to the increasing number of Covid-19 cases and deaths.
Most of them are on ‘survival mode’ with the pandemic taking a toll on their businesses.
Seberang Perai Coffee Shop and Food Store Owners’ Association president Lee Kok Yong said the Covid-19 situation was volatile.
“Our members are mainly trying to sustain their businesses. Gone are the days when hawkers enjoy brisk business.”
Lee said that many hawkers resorted to creative ways to run their businesses.
“They turn to online delivery and make their packaging more attractive to draw customers.
“They also come up with promotional menus and promote them via social media,” he told Buletin Mutiara.
Lee said some hawkers also appealed to reduce their monthly rentals to alleviate their financial burden.
He added that many hawkers had taken part in the National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme (NIP).
Penang Hawkers Association chairman Datuk Lam Tong Ying said that although dine-in was allowed, many food court operators and hawkers prefer to only provide takeaway service for now.
“They feel that by having only takeaway service, they can ensure the safety of their customers as well as themselves.
“The hawkers do not have a choice because the situation is unpredictable and becoming very serious.
“We believe that other sectors and industries are also facing difficulties. We hope that the situation will soon improve,” he said.
A curry mee seller in Air Itam, only wanted to be known as Tan, said she had no other alternative except to sustain her business as she needs to take care of her aging parents.
“Honestly, it has been a very hard time for me. Business has dropped by more than 50%.
“I will do my best to hold on to my business,” she said.
Koo Soo Kwong Choon Tong Restaurant and Teahouse Association chairman Vinah Yee said some restaurateurs has decided to close as they could not cope with the impact of the pandemic.
“Those who are still surviving are riding on the food delivery system platform.
“This is a challenging period for all of us. Nowadays, most people also prefer to cook at home. That has also slightly impacted our business,” she said.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix courtesy of interviewees