For Rodie, every performance comes at a cost
The visually impaired busker once performed almost daily at LRT stations; now, fewer venues and expensive transport are eating into what he earns.
Rodie Jainahum and his wife have been performing together for years, relying on busking to make a living despite his visual impairment. LRT stations provided a convenient and sheltered venue, but the couple lost access to these spots in 2022. Rodie, who started busking in 2005, said the loss of regular LRT slots reduced his income from RM1,500 a month to around RM1,000.
He now performs at two restaurants and another location in Bangsar, but the increased travel costs and logistical challenges have strained his finances. E-hailing services are the only viable option for him, but the costs can be exorbitant, with a return journey from Bangsar to Shah Alam costing between RM80 and RM100. Over a month, Rodie spends about RM600 on transport, leaving him with roughly RM400 after expenses.
Despite the challenges, Rodie remains committed to his work, as it is his passion and a way to support his family. He emphasized that he is not seeking sympathy, but rather to raise awareness of the difficulties faced by visually impaired performers.
Written by urgent.news from Free Malaysia Today's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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- For Rodie, every performance comes at a cost freemalaysiatoday.com
