THE smoke enveloping many parts of the country is not only affecting the health of many but is also being sorely felt by food-stall operators.  

Traders in Kuantan said sales had taken a dip during the smoky period compared with normal days. 

A food seller in Taman Bandar, Wan Husniza Wan Hussain, 36, said visitors to the recreational park dropped last week, and that some traders were forced to shut their stalls temporarily. 

“The recreational park has always been lively but there have been fewer visitors as parents are reluctant to take their children outdoors for health reasons. 

“Usually, my crisps and local cakes will be sold out by midday, but today, many are still are left unsold. However, I have to carry on selling because my income is on a daily basis,” she said.

Norsham Marzuki, 27, who helps his sister run a nasi lemak stall in Alor Akar, said they did not expect the smog to worsen today as the weather had been good the past two days.

He said they had seen a drop in the number of customers, citing the air pollution.  

“Usually, those who drop by the stall are those who are returning home after jogging at the park or hikers. When they stop their activities, our business suffer, too,” he said.

As of 3pm, Indera Mahkota and Balok Baru posted unhealthy air pollutant index (API) readings of 153 and 140, compared with yesterday’s moderate readings of 83 and 82, respectively.

Three other areas in Pahang also recorded unhealthy readings, namely Jerantut (141), Temerloh (135) and Rompin (118). – Bernama, September 22, 2019.