MERSING – A traditional bahulu maker in Jalan Haji Ariffin, Endau, has expressed concern that the bad weather in the district will make it difficult for him to obtain coconut husk supply to continue his business activities.
Rizal Mohamad, 51, who runs the business with his wife Rosnani Said, 51, was also worried that the continuous rain and floods would affect the premises as it is the only source of income for his family.
“With this kind of weather, it is pretty challenging to obtain coconut husk supply which we usually purchase at RM60 for one small lorry load.
“I’m selling bahulu sabut, bahulu cermai, as well as bahulu in flower and fish shapes with uncertain income. However, if the coconut husks are available, I can earn around RM250 to RM350 per day,” he told Bernama when met at the premises, which have been inundated up to the knee level.
Rizal, who has been running the business since 2017, said the downpour since Saturday had caused his premises to be flooded on the same day, leaving the coconut husks all dampened while two gas cylinders were swept away by the strong current but managed to be saved.
“If a stagnant flood occurs, we must close for a while. Besides, we are currently facing uncertain weather conditions,” said the father of eight, adding that he had yet to estimate his losses.
As of noon today, Mersing is the second district with the highest number of evacuees of 830 people who are currently taking shelter at six relief centres. – Bernama
