Shoppers more thrifty in spending for Raya

KUALA LUMPUR: “Prudence” appears to be the theme for shoppers preparing for Hari Raya Aidilfitri this year.

The bustling scene remains at popular shopping spots such as Chow Kit road, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman (TAR), Jalan Masjid India, Ampang Park and PKNS complex.

Shoppers hunt for new baju raya, scarves, songkok, accessories, raya packets, decorative lamps, streamers and fireworks at these markets.

The difference, however, lies in the people splurging, a scenario that is similar to most Ramadan bazaars.

Kelana Jaya Ramadan bazaar cake seller Hashim Salehin said people were more discerning this year and the buying pattern was glaring.

“They knew what they wanted, how much and they bargained more fervently, too,” he said, adding that nobody did the “point and kira (count how much)” anymore.

Discount offers at hypermalls had also lured many shoppers, but for Azwan Sham, 28, it was the Jalan TAR market for him.

The technician said Jalan TAR was no longer as “happening” as it used to be , but he still brought his wife. Nur Alia Ahmad, 28, and son to find their matching raya attire.

“We have this tradition among us. This year it’s a cream shade,” said Azwan, who will be celebrating Hari Raya in Perak.

Another traditionalist, Siti Syuhada Harun, 43, plans her market raid when it is busiest — a day or two before the celebration.

“This is my trick because many traders would offer discounts up to 70 per cent to clear their stock by then,” she said.

Online shopping has also made its mark this year and so have caterers during the fasting month ahead of the celebration this weekend.

For Raudhah Hussein, 31, she preferred to shop online and avoid the trouble of going to all the festive markets.

The corporate communications manager said online shopping saved her time and the hassle of picking her choice baju raya.

Catering staff Ghazali Kadir, 32, said this year the restaurant he worked for was booked for buka puasa events everyday.