Hawker centres important for people with fewer means

I was disturbed by the letter “Cheap hawker food comes at a social cost” (April 13). Obviously the author must be a person of fair means.

Yes, it is cheaper for most of us to prepare our food at home. But various reasons prevent certain groups of people from doing so.

For example, if both parents in a family are working and are too poor to afford a maid, food at the hawker centre is the only way.

And for those of fewer means who may wish to eat out to celebrate an occasion or have a good time, food at such centres may also be the only place they can afford.

That said, a solution should be found to address the low wages of workers who work at hawker centres. I am sure the Government will be able to address this issue without depriving the less privileged of an affordable dining option.