Mahadevan says the extreme weather has significantly increased sales of coconut water at his stall opposite the Gunung Rapat market.
THE hot weather and rising temperatures in Ipoh have become increasingly unbearable for many, especially those who have to venture outdoors.
People are finding ways to cool down and stay hydrated – from carrying water bottles for frequent hydration to downing ice-cold drinks.
As for drink sellers in the city, the extreme weather has been a boon as the demand for cold beverages surged.
Coconut water vendor S. Mahadevan, said the hot weather, which persisted since the middle of June, had significantly boosted his business.
Sale of Chinese herbal tea has increased as people seek to cool down and stay hydrated.
“I’m selling up to 80 fruits a day compared to 50 fruits previously.
“I now harvest coconuts every 15 days instead of 30,” he said at his stall opposite the Gunung Rapat market, adding that he even had customers who came back on consecutive days.
The Malaysian Meteorological Department previously reported that Malaysians could expect hotter and drier days until September because of the ongoing southwest monsoon.
Co-owner of Funny Mountain Soya Bean outlet, Tan Han Seng said many thirsty customers flocked to his stall as early as 11am.
“Previously, I had about 150 customers dropping by but now I have over 180 customers in a day.
“They always go for the chilled soya milk as it helps cool the body down.”
Chinese herbal drink seller Chong Siew Ying said since the onset of the hot weather, many people had been seeking her special bitter herbal tea.
Diners at an outdoor eatery quenching their thirst with iced drinks. —Photos: RONNIE CHIN/The Star
“Although it is bitter, it helps reduce body heat and provides relief for sore throat.
“They also look for sugarcane, ginseng and chrysanthemum tea.
“We have about 100 customers walking in daily compared to two months ago, when we typically saw between 30 and 50.
“This month is expected to get hotter, so I expect to see more customers,” she said.
An iced-lime jelly seller, who wanted to be known only as Azizah, said she sold more than 100 packs daily last month compared to about 50 packs in early June.
“Most of my customers say that the lime jelly helps to cool them down,” she said at her stall on Jalan Silibin.
