KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysians can now turn to the newly-launched MyHawker app to indulge in their favourite pastime ­– makan or eating sessions.

The app helps users find food outlets according to area, its halal status and type of meal – whether for breakfast, lunch, dinner or supper.

It also enables users to rate outlets on their dish, price, service and hygiene.

Simon Ang, who manages a dried meat business in Jalan Alor here, said the app would allow hawkers to improve their food and service if they find their customers giving them negative reviews.

“This will in turn benefit future customers,” said Ang, 40, adding that establishments would also benefit from free publicity if the reviews were good.

The app, he said, would also enable Malaysians to enjoy each other’s cuisine.

“For Malays, the app can tell them which places serve halal food. It’s especially useful in places like Jalan Alor where there are halal establishments but you have to go and ask one by one.

“With the app, you can go straight to the halal outlet,” he said, adding it would also help tourists find good local eateries.

The MyHawker app was launched by Plantation Industries and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Mah Siew Keong yesterday, who said the app would help hawkers and small business owners in the country grow in line with technology.

“In this era of innovation, many people, especially youths, use their smartphones. So, this will be a good way for them to find good places to eat,” said Mah.

MyHawker, a product by the Development Unit of Hawkers, Petty Traders and Penang Hindu Endowments Board, can be downloaded through Google Play Store and Apple App Store.-thestar