Viral Argument Between Petai Seller & Port Dickson Council Takes Heartwarming Turn
"I feel better now that the issue has been resolved," the trader said, expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support he and his wife have received.
By May Vin Ang — 25 Mar 2025, 11:30 AM
In a heartwarming turn of events, the viral argument between a petai seller and the Port Dickson Municipal Council (MPPD) has been resolved amicably
According to the New Straits Times, the elderly trader went viral last Friday, 21 March, after a video captured him throwing his petai onto the ground when enforcement officers ordered him to stop selling his produce at a parking lot.
Visibly frustrated, the man could be heard exclaiming, "I can't even earn an honest living in my own country. I'm not even selling 24 hours a day!"
The video drew an outpouring of sympathy online.
In a heartwarming twist, MPPD president Hasnor Abd Hamid met with the petai seller, Mohd Noor Saad, 67, at his home in Kampung Sungai Raya, Pasir Panjang on Friday night
During the meeting, the council president offered Mohd Noor a temporary licence to continue his business legally.
In addition, Sri Tanjung assemblyman Dr G Rajasekaran, on behalf of Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun, also presented him with financial aid to compensate for the petai he had thrown away.
The New Straits Times reported that the men later shook hands as a gesture of goodwill and to signify the resolution of the issue.
A meeting between Mohd Noor Saad and MPPD president Hasnor Abd Hamid at his home in Kampung Sungai Raya, Pasir Panjang on Friday night, 21 March.
Image via New Straits TimesFollowing the incident, Mohd Noor shared that he sells petai on his motorcycle to raise funds for his wife's cataract surgery
He told Sinar Harian that he sources the seasonal produce from an Orang Asli village in Kuala Pilah and typically sells six pieces for RM10.
"I just earn a little to support myself and my wife. As long as I have the strength, I will continue working so I don't burden my children," he said, adding that he also receives RM500 in monthly aid from the Social Welfare Department.
Petai seller Mohd Noor Saad and his wife, Asiah Yaakup.
Image via Mohd Khhidir Zakaria/New Straits TimesNow that the issue has been resolved, Mohd Noor hopes to move on
"I was upset at the time. But when I went home, I put it past me and calmed down. I feel better now that the issue has been resolved," he said, expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support he and his wife have since received.
Several kind-hearted individuals and even two private hospitals have also stepped forward to sponsor his wife's surgery.
"This generosity is beyond what I ever imagined. I am truly touched by the kindness shown to us," he said.
