KLANG, Oct 27 (Bernama) -- The low prices and variety of goods continue to attract the Hindu community to shop in Little India on Jalan Tengku Kelana here, ahead of Deepavali next week, despite the growing trend of online shopping.
A walkabout by Bernama found the Little India area bustling with crowds since yesterday as people prepare for the festivities, even in the sweltering heat.
Vendors eagerly offered the lowest prices to customers, while the lively beats of Tamil songs filled the air, energising shoppers to continue browsing.
Local businessman John Murugan, 63, said that it had been a family routine for several years to shop in Klang due to the significantly lower prices, especially for clothing and other items, compared to places like Kuala Lumpur and Kota Bharu, Kelantan.
The native of Kuala Krai, Kelantan, said that he came to Little India with his wife, daughter, and three other relatives to find the latest items in the area.
"Goods here are 30 to 50 per cent cheaper compared to other areas. This might be due to Little India's proximity to the country's main port.
"I came here from Kelantan with two cars for shopping, and they are both full because the items are genuinely inexpensive and I’m satisfied with the quality," he said when met by Bernama today.
Private sector worker M. Durghashini, 28, said that Little India in Klang had been her main shopping destination since she started working in Kuala Lumpur a few years ago, thanks to the variety of beautiful and affordable sarees.
"Additionally, there are many traditional sweets, and I prefer to buy them in-store rather than online because I want to get the 'feel' for celebrating Deepavali," she said.
Trader S. Sri, 48, noted that this year’s visitor turnout seemed less vibrant compared to previous years, as younger people tend to shop online for cheaper goods and to avoid crowds.
"However, I believe that in the last few days leading up to Deepavali, there will be many more making last-minute purchases," he added.
Oct 31, 2024, has been declared a Federal Public Holiday in conjunction with Deepavali in Malaysia.
-- BERNAMA
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