KISAH Futures Anthology
A jolt of inspiration descends on her, and she swiftly jots it down for later reference. As she walks off into the scorching sun, an instant regret for wearing a fleece top sweeps over her. The pandemic caused an exponential increase in demand for micro-logistics, resulting in a steep rise in carbon emission. Its impact has caused temperatures to rise ever since. Malaysia has always been notorious for its heat and humidity. Still, Geeta used to be able to enjoy the cooling breeze after a heavy downpour. Now, it is continuously warm. Heavy. Suffocating. Then again, her mother taught her to always appear presentable. “Always put your best foot forward,” she’d say. Geeta wonders if it’s worth the sweat. Maybe an apple pie after , she thinks to herself. How typical for a Malaysian to think about other food while getting food , she chuckles when reaching the shop. “Aunty Lee, roast chicken rice one take away. Thank you.” The vendor nods, sweat glistening off her wrinkled forehead. Geeta feels for her, the humidity she must be feeling beneath her mask. She’s one of the last few small vendors. The lockdown limited everyone to food delivery services, causing restaurant chains to easily outcompete micro-vendors. Many couldn’t even survive a month. Now, Geeta tries her best to eat here whenever she can, glancing at the empty tables within. “5 Underrated Food Stalls in Klang Valley Everyone Should Visit”, she jots down. “That’ll be four-fifty.” Geeta looks up as her food is handed to her. Reaching into her purse before remembering that cash is now a thing of the past, she opens her e-payment app and scans the QR
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