KISAH Futures Anthology
were more affordable and less crowded. Naturally other towns began to grow, and this city was not attractive as it used to be. Along said since there was a labour shortage, employers don’t mind hiring even ex-convicts for decent job openings; though I didn’t get her joke about it being harder for ex-politicians. An old cellmate once suggested I should try head up north where there was plenty of trade-related jobs near the new Thai Canal. As we reached the city centre, Along pointed to one of the old office towers with a refurbishment sign at its entrance. Apparently her current house was getting too cramped for her husband’s consultancy business and the teenage kids wanted more privacy. “They suggested this place as a suitable home-office.” I gave a puzzled look. “Who?’’ I immediately regretted that question as my lecturer-sister went on a history lesson on how people-powered data and self- learning algorithms have been helping everyone. “Oh, you’ll find out all about it later,” she cut her story short after noticing my distracted gaze at delivery drones flying over the clear blue skies. Our ride slowed to a halt once we reached the cemetery gates. Along immediately went to scan in her pre-booked visiting time slot to release the gate locks. Mak was one of the many pandemic casualties, and the regret of being helpless during her final moments still hurt to this day. “I miss her too,” said a teary Along as we approached Mak’s grave. I could sense her guilt of not being the dependable big sister after Mak’s passing.
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