DESPITE being retrenched in August this year due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it did not stop a former telecommunication employee from moving forward with his life and find other ways to earn a living.
Muhammad Syukur Mohd Patthi, 26, together with his two other friends Yusri Md Saad, 35, and Mohamad Zaidi Zainal Abidin, 33, has taken the initiative to set up a roadside stall selling corn juice near Bandar Perda, Bukit Mertajam.
What makes them unique is that they don superhero outfits, such as Iron Man, Bumblebee, Predator, Power Rangers and various other characters, which make them stand out from other juice sellers nearby.
Although their business has only been in operation for a few weeks, it has managed to receive an overwhelming response from the public.
Prior to losing his job, Muhammad Syukur said they used to do cosplay together – he on a part-time basis whereas Yusri and Mohamad Zaidi were full-time players.
“We have this group called the ‘Geng Superhero Penang (GSP)’ that was established two years ago with 15 members.
“Through that group, we would do cosplay for children’s birthday parties, schools’ opening and other events as well.
“But all of that stopped because of the Covid-19 pandemic and also due to the reimplementation of conditional movement control order (CMCO) in Penang.
“So based on our experiences in donning superhero outfits, we came out with the idea to sell corn juice while becoming ‘superheroes’ ourselves.
“Although the weather is a bit unpredictable these days – with rain sometimes and with the hot sun other times – it’s totally worth it when we see the smiles on our customers’ faces. This gives us the strength to continue what we do,” he said when approached by Buletin Mutiara yesterday (Nov 25).
Muhammad Syukur said so far the business is brisk despite the ongoing CMCO.
“We managed to sell between 100 and 150 bottles of corn juice per day.
“Each corn juice is priced at RM8 per bottle, RM15 for two bottles and RM20 for three bottles.
“We sell our product from our car boot, so we’re relatively mobile and will go to different locations every day around Bandar Perda.
“And I am really thankful and grateful for the overwhelming support from our customers,” he added.
According to Muhammad Syukur, their corn juice is different from others because it is homemade and thus more creamy and sweet.
“We don’t use sugar but we add some milk and it’s yummy and refreshing,” he said.
When the CMCO is over, Muhammad Syukur also plans on expanding his business into other districts in Penang to attract new customers.
“We will also consider adding more flavours to our juice if we continue to receive a continuous support from the people,” he added.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis