Johor Polls Campaign Brings Economic Windfall To Traders

By Mohamad Syazwan Mustafa

KLUANG, July 1 (Bernama) -- The Johor State Election Season is proving to be more than just a democratic exercise, as it has become an unexpected economic boost for petty traders and hawkers in the Layang-Layang and Simpang Renggam areas.

For stall operator Noorma Zafmeeden, 70, from Felda Layang-Layang, the surge in customers during the campaign period has exceeded all expectations.

She said her stall, which serves roti canai and nasi lemak, would normally generate less than RM400 in morning sales, but business has increased significantly since the start of the election campaign.

“On normal days, our income is average, but when election season comes, there is definitely a substantial increase in earnings,” she told Bernama recently.

Noorma and her husband, Bahari Madiran, 76, who have lived in the Felda settlement since 1987, continue their long-standing routine of preparing popular Malaysian breakfast dishes from dawn, before selling various fried dishes in the evening.

For Bahari, their warung has become a meeting point that reflects unity, with customers from different races and religions gathering in a warm and harmonious atmosphere.

The father of five said the influx of visitors has satisfied him, as it provides opportunities to interact with people and campaign workers from various parts of the country.

Meanwhile, the election-driven economic boost has also been felt by “nasi campur” trader Ahmad Ridzuan Awang, 45, in Simpang Renggam, who said his sales have doubled during the campaign period.

“Usually, dozens of dishes only sell out by evening, but since the state election campaign started, by as early as 1.30 pm our trays are already empty due to bulk orders from various parties,” he said.

Ahmad Ridzuan noted that the influx of what he described as “political tourists” has benefited not only food operators but also created a positive spillover effect for local suppliers and businesses in the surrounding area.

The Johor state election is seeing 172 candidates contesting 56 seats, with polling day scheduled for July 11 and early voting on July 7.

For the latest updates on the 16th Johor state election, visit https://prn.bernama.com/johor/. 

-- BERNAMA