Q&A: Chusak Puengcham

February 6th, 2008

Street Talk We’re used to shopping in markets until our arms and backs ache from all the food we’ve bought. But wholesale shoppers have it easy thanks to deliverymen who cart their produce around for a small price. At Talad Klong Toey, on Rama 4 Road, we met Chusak Puengcham, 46, who has been doing this job for fi ve years.

BK: How did you get this job?

Chusak Puengcham: I was a farmer in my hometown but it was very diffi cult. There was no work after the growing season. I didn’t have anything to do, so I decided to look for a job in Bangkok. I had a friend delivering vegetables in Talad Klong Toey and he got me started.

BK: Do you have regular customers?

CP: Yes, I have many. They like me because of my good service. They all trust me and I try to stay worthy of their trust. There are a lot of new customers, too, because this market is so big and open only for a short time during the day. Some shops open at night, though.

BK: Do you like this jacket?

CP: I bought it for B40,000 with the savings I took with me when I left my hometown. I must wear this jacket so customers can spot me.

BK: How much do you get per day?

CP: It depends on how hard I work. If I work hard, I get more money. Usually, I’ll make B300 a day. I save about B10,000 a month after I’ve paid for all my monthly expenses.

BK: Any accidents while working?

CP: Lots! But nothing serious or any injuries. Sometimes my cart hits a stall and I have to pay the owner. Sometimes, other carts or cars hit me and break my things; then they have to pay me.

BK: Do you have a boss?

CP: There are four bosses at the four centers around the market. They are there to receive complaints from customers and take care of all the over rules, like checking if we’re wearing our vest.

BK: Do you ever take sick days?

CP: Yes, I do but it’s just physical. My mind never gives up.

BK: What’s so good about this job?

CP: There’s work for me all the time, all year round, unlike farming where I had to depend on the weather and seasons.

BK: How do I hire you?

CP: If you see anyone with a colorful jacket, just call out. Sumanut Thiengthong