I was disappointed with the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department for arresting the old egg-waffles man for the sixth time. I know he does not possess a licence. But the officers should be more sympathetic and consider the old man's feelings before taking any action.
I am not asking the department to grant him a licence straight away. The department would not want to set a precedent that was unfair to other hawkers. I am just asking the government to negotiate with the waffle man and tell him how he can get a licence.
I am impressed by the perseverance of this elderly man. He only wants to make a living without relying on welfare from the government. He makes waffles that are appreciated by many people. The government should protect that as part of our intangible culture, and re-evaluate its policies on licensing.
Old egg-waffles man, your determination is a good example for us all.
Steffi Chong, St Paul's Co-educational College
From the Editor
