PHOTO ESSAY | Having to divide a packet of Maggi noodle among his family of six was one of the bitter memories suffered by Mohd Azman Mohd Sharim during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The 36-year-old children’s toy seller was among many who suffered financial difficulties in 2020 when lockdowns impacted businesses.

That didn’t stop Azman, who also supports his disabled mother, from resorting to other means of income - such as selling balloons on the streets to make an honest living.

He began selling children’s toys with a capital of RM400 from Baitulmal, a financial institution in charge of administering zakat collection.

But his trade does not provide a fixed income - having to depend on luck to make sales each day.

Azman’s family selling toys

Sometimes, all Azman makes is RM40 to RM60 a week.

With expenses of roughly RM2,000 per month, he is sometimes left with outstanding bills.

His one saving grace, however, is the Batu Muda Public Housing Scheme (PPR) which shelters his family for just RM145 every month.

Batu Muda Public Housing Scheme
Among the toys Azman’s sells to make a living
Azman’s children
Three of Azman’s children

Azman attending to a wound

Azman’s children doing their studies

A typical dish at Azman’s household

Azman’s family sharing a phone

Azman’s family in their lighter moments

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