Seremban Flea Market Haven For Antique Lovers

By Sarinah Mat Kasim

SEREMBAN, Jan 14 (Bernama) -- Visiting the over 40-year-old Sunday flea market at Jalan Utam Singh here feels like stepping back in time – it is filled with a variety of antique and vintage items rich in history, including brassware, home décor and watches.

Mohd Khairudin Darus, 65, who has been trading at the market for eight years, said the items on sale there captivate antique lovers as they not only evoke memories but are also aesthetically pleasing.

He said items such as classic picture frames, vintage tableware, old sewing machines and classic clocks are among the “treasures” visitors can find in the flea market.

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"Most of the items I have in my shop are from friends or relatives who sell them to me because they know I sell vintage goods.

"Such items have their own fans and collectors. Some enjoy just looking at them while others love to collect antiques to use as decorations," Mohd Khairudin told Bernama.

He said the flea market receives many visitors, even from outside the state. Items in high demand include vintage tableware, and home décor collections like classic picture frames and antique vases, with their prices ranging from as low as RM10 to RM1,200 each.

"I even have an antique telescope like the one used by Jack Sparrow priced at RM1,200. This telescope is made of brass in England… it has high aesthetic value and is rare to find," he said, adding he obtained the telescope from a friend.

Veteran trader Cheah Ah Seng, 70, who has been selling at the flea market for over 30 years, said although the atmosphere is not as vibrant as it used to be, many traders have kept their businesses open due to their passion for antiques and loyal customers.

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"We used to get more visitors those days, now there are fewer maybe because times have changed,” said Cheah, who sells various vintage sewing machines and home decorations at the flea market.

Meanwhile, visitor Nazira Ismail, 38, said the market is not just a trading place but a nostalgic spot for the older generation and a place where the younger generation can get to know more about items that were once in use.

"It’s exciting to see old items like antique brass irons that use charcoal to press clothes. Nowadays, you rarely see such things in the market.

"My children are also thrilled to see these old items that were probably used by our ancestors. These days, they’re hard to come by. But we just look at them as these items are quite costly. We know they are priceless treasures," said the mother of three.

She also hopes more young people will visit the market to witness these old items and cultural heritage firsthand, thereby appreciating the rich history they represent.

The flea market, which hosts over 20 traders, operates every Sunday from 7 am to 1 pm. Despite its limited operating hours, it remains a key weekend attraction, especially for antique enthusiasts always on the hunt for unique collectibles.

-- BERNAMA