KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 10 ― Padang Serai MP Karupayah Mutusamy clasped his hands in Parliament today when pleading for urgent assistance for his constituents in Padang Besar that was under an enhanced movement control order.

He said many were struggling to feed themselves and their children as a result of the EMCO.

Karupayah made an emotional plea for the government to provide RM300 for each affected household in his constituency.

"There are farmers markets which are opened in EMCO areas but I received complaints that the sellers are taking advantage by selling things at an exorbitant price.

"As the EMCO started on November 27, many private sector employees cannot go to the banks to withdraw money to buy basic necessities as salaries are usually paid only at the end of the month,” he said.

Karupayah added that some families were also struggling to buy infant formula and diapers for their children.

On the RM300 he demanded, Karupayah said it is a justified request as people are stranded in the area, with some having no ways to make ends meet.

"Because the rakyat cannot go out. The rakyat are struggling, the children are suffering there. I plead to you! I ask for help! Please help those in my constituency!” Karupayah said, after interjecting the Minister’s Question Time (MQT).

He said the fact that EMCO in Paya Jaras has been extended until December 24, has made life difficult for those living in the area.