KANGAR – After a much-awaited announcement, Perlis residents were excited today to dine in following the state’s transition to Phase 3 of the National Recovery Plan (NRP).
Checks found that the public began converging on restaurants and other eateries to enjoy their breakfast from as early as 7am.
Many were willing to stand in long queues for tables, following standard operating procedures (SOPs) on physical distancing that limits two persons to a table.
Eatery operators also heaved a huge sigh of relief after their incomes were affected by movement control order (MCO) 3.0 restrictions that began on May 7.
Roti canai seller Mohd Azuam Azwadi said he was kept busy today with more than 20 customers queuing up as tables are limited in his shop.
“My shop can only accommodate 10 tables to comply with the physical-distancing rule. Alhamdulillah, every customer understands and patiently waits for their turn,” said the 30-year-old.
Kopitiam owner Khor Sooi Hwang, 56, said she expected many customers at her shop today.
“Many customers have told me that eating at home is not the same as eating out. They say dining in is more enjoyable as the atmosphere is different than at home,” said the mother of five.
A customer, Rusli Ali, 50, expressed happiness at being able to go back 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 SOPs, like physical distancing,” said the technician.
Another customer, Nur Diyana Radzi, 29, said since the MCO, she has had to get up as early as 5am to cook food to bring to work as she disliked buying packed food.
“Alhamdulillah, I can finally eat at the shop as usual. I also feel relieved as I don’t have to cook on the daily anymore,” said the civil servant. – Bernama, August 4, 2021
