Perlis folk make a beeline for eateries as shops open

 

A restaurant owner taking orders in Kangar today, as Perlis moved into phase three of the national recovery plan, which allows for dine-in customers. (Bernama pic)

KANGAR: After the much-awaited announcement of the state’s transition to phase three of the national recovery plan, people in Perlis were just raring to go out – to eat.

A survey showed that the public began to converge at restaurants and other eateries to enjoy their breakfast as early as 7am.

They were willing to stand in long queues for tables and follow the SOPs on physical distancing which limits each table to two persons.

Eatery operators also heaved a huge sigh of relief as they can now stay afloat after seeing their income affected since the movement control order (MCOP 3.0) was implemented from May 7.

Roti canai seller Mohd Azuam Azwadi said he was kept busy today with more than 20 customers queuing up as the tables were limited in his shop.

“My shop only has 10 tables to comply with the physical distancing rule. Every customer understood and patiently waited for their turn,” said the 30-year-old.

Kopitiam owner, Khor Sooi Hwang, 56, said she had expected many customers at her shop today as she was aware of people’s excitement who had not enjoyed a meal at the shop for over two months.

“Many customers have told me that eating at home is not the same as eating out. They say dining-in at restaurants is more enjoyable as the atmosphere is different than at home,” said the mother of five.

For others, the permission to dine-in at eateries was seen as a cure for their longing to eat outside, which was their daily routine before the MCO was enforced.

A customer, Rusli Ali, 50, expressed happiness over his return to eating out today.

“For me, the excitement of eating at a shop with friends before going to the office today is like celebrating Hari Raya. We still follow the SOP like physical distancing,” the technician said.

Another customer, Nur Diyana Radzi, 29, said since the MCO, she had to get up as early as 5am to cook to bring food to work as she disliked buying packed food.

“I can finally eat at the shop as usual. I also feel relieved as I don’t have to cook daily anymore,” said the civil servant. - FMT