GEORGE TOWN: Hawkers and food operators in the B40 and M40 groups here are hoping that the latest aid from the government can help them sustain their business.

       Hawker Chu Kam Lin, 62, whose household falls under the B40 category, said she looked forward to the RM500 and RM300 payout in August and December.

       “These may not be much but they can help lessen our burden. We are hoping that the total payout of RM800 will be able to cover our expenses.

       “We appreciate whatever aid we are able to get now as we understand that the government has to provide for others as well.

       “As hawkers, we are still able to earn. Although not much, we are grateful to be able to put food on our table,” she said when met at a food court in Gelugor on Tuesday. Chu said apart from the aid, they were most grateful for the six-month loan moratorium.

       “For us, besides our living expenses and business costs, we need to pay off our car loan of over RM1,000 each month.

       Hoping for better days: Chu said she looks forward to the RM500 and RM300 payout in August and December.

       “So if we are able to put this aside for the time being, it would help with our cash flow.

       “We can focus our savings on more important things,” she added.

       Food operator Canny Xing, 26, whose family is under the M40 category, said she was happy to hear that they would receive aid under the Pakej Perlindungan Rakyat dan Pemulihan Ekonomi (Pemulih).

       “Over the past few rounds, we were not mentioned so it is good news to us that we are being included.

       With the aid, her family could receive RM250 on top of the six-month loan moratorium for all borrowers.

       “To us, this is one of the most important measures the government can take to help those from the middle class.

       “My father is not around anymore and my mother is the only one with a secure and stable job for the time being.

       “My elder brother is working and my younger brother is still in university.

       “Although I work as well, my business is not good these days with no dine-ins allowed.

       “As such, we need help as well. So we are really relieved to hear of the moratorium for all borrowers as we have vehicle loans, housing loans and rentals to pay,” she said.