SANDAKAN – When Sheena Rashid Kamsiran read that the Sabah government has barred Ramadan bazaars from being held this year, her thoughts went out to her friends, most of whom are hawkers and traders.
The announcement on April 7 has thrown a wrench into plans by traders, who bought stock ahead of the Muslim fasting month, which begins today.
“Most of them have purchased the ingredients needed to make the food they were going to sell. Some even bought canopies. I understand their struggles because I, too, am in the food business,” said Sheena.
“So, when I heard that bazaars are not allowed in Sabah this year, I decided to create an online platform for traders to sell their goods.”
The 31-year-old home-based businesswoman created the “Bazaar Ramadhan Sandakan 2021” Facebook page, which has more than 3,500 followers to date.
Sellers are free to promote their food and other items, and buyers can place orders via the page or reach out to the traders directly.
“I hope this platform will help traders. Customers can conveniently scroll the page to look for the food they want, and pay for a runner to deliver it,” said Sheena.
Sheena, who was born and raised here, now lives in Kedah. Nonetheless, she remains close to her friends in Sandakan, and hopes the Facebook page she created will help hawkers and traders seeking an online avenue to continue doing business.
Fara Ramsah, a restaurant owner who had been readying to open a stall at a Ramadan bazaar, said she is thankful for Sheena’s initiative.
A lot of traders are in a lurch due to the Covid-19 pandemic, especially those who do not have premises to operate from, she said.
“I know some friends who sold their jewellery to buy canopies, water dispensers and other items needed to operate at a bazaar.
“I hope they will be able to earn, or at least recover their business model, through this Facebook page.” – The Vibes, April 13, 2021
