TRADERS at Chowrasta Market and the Campbell Street Market are thankful to the state government for prioritising the health and safety of the people.
However, some are calling the Government to look into revitalising the economy.
A vegetable seller in Chowrasta Market, who declined to be named, hoped that the Government could channel more aid to help them as their businesses were badly hit due to the movement control order (MCO).
“We are thankful for the face masks given to us. We hope that the Government will also work on something to boost the economy,” he told Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng during their visit to the market this morning.
They were distributing face masks to the hawkers and traders at the two markets – Campbell Street and Chowrasta – that are located nearby one another.
Chow and Teh also gave away the face masks to market-goers who were buying their groceries.
Teh said that Penangites were more familiar with the MCO now.
“People are wearing face masks and practise social distancing when they are outdoor buying food or groceries.
“The Chowrasta Market is located in the heart of George Town.
“There are not many people buying their groceries here because there are not many residents staying within 10km from the market.
“Overall, the traders understand the situation that we are facing and they agree that the priority now is to promote good health and safety,” Teh said.
Chow said the state heard the woes of the traders.
“We understand their concerns. We have to prioritise health but health of the economy is also important. Economic health is something that the Government must address.
“We are still awaiting the Federal Government’s announcement pertaining to the other sectors that may be allowed to operate, subject to compliance with strict guidelines,” he said.
The Penang government has unfolded its post-pandemic plan, the ‘Penang Next Normal Strategy’, to ensure that the state’s economy stays resilient.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Law Suun Ting
Video by Alvie Cheng
