KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 5 — The implementation of the Movement Control Order (MCO) to curb the COVID-19 pandemic should not be viewed as a barrier for those in vulnerable group of the B40 to diversify their sources of income.
Instead of expecting government assistance, they need to strive for survival in this challenging times.
They need to quick to adapt and one of them is Sheilla Tukimin, who previously ran a bus rental company.
As her business badly affected by COVID-19 pandemic, Sheilla, who is the president of Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Women and Single Mothers Association (WITUS), quickly found a new source of livelihood – selling coconut water without receiving any government incentive.
“For over a year we could not operate the bus services and we were very depressed. The way I overcame the situation was to generate my own income.
“Now I run a business supplying and selling young coconuts and sugarcane juice. I bought a lorry and from there I become a supplier of young coconuts to be traded by those who have been affected (by this pandemic) to generate an income,” she told Bernama TV. The effort allowed her to survive in this difficult period.
Sheilla’s effort was supported by the Credit Counselling and Debt Management Agency (AKPK)’s Household Financial Education head Nirmala Supramaniam.
“The source of income must be diversified at this time. We have to have a backup and please be wary of the reality of financial crime that is rampant now.
“Please be careful that while in the process of diversifying income, do not lose everything,” said Nirmala when contacted via video conference.
Nirmala said although the various incentives provided by the government including the National Economic Recovery Plan, Kita Prihatin and many more, but Shiella’s own effort (to generate income) should be commended.
Sources: BERNAMA