Malaysia's Ramadan bazaars now operate 24/7

Ramadan bazaars in Malaysia are changing this year. These markets, popular during the Islamic holy month, are now open 24 hours to meet the needs of shoppers. Ramadan started in early March, and the bazaars offer food, fashion, and festive items. In Kuala Lumpur, the largest bazaar at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) showcased over 700 vendors. This four-day event, which runs from noon to 6 a.m., attracted many visitors, creating a lively atmosphere in the middle of the night. Social media showed heavy traffic around the venue as people flocked to enjoy the festival experience. Shoppers appreciate the late-night hours. One shopper mentioned that after working during the day, it’s nice to have a 24-hour option to visit with family and friends. The vibrant environment and large crowds reflect the growing popularity of these events, making them major attractions during Ramadan. For vendors like Azzim Zahid, who runs a traditional Malay costume brand, the busy hours require extra staff to handle demand. He noted that events like this, especially with celebrity involvement, significantly boost sales. These Ramadan bazaars are not just about festivities. They are also big economic contributors. Statistics show that bazaars across the country generated over RM2.5 billion (about US$560 million) in sales and created more than 200,000 jobs in 2023. The organizers of the Absolut Bazaar reported about US$10 million in sales over three years, providing small businesses a chance to thrive. The director of Absolut Bazaar emphasized that extended hours lead to larger crowds and more spending. They aim to support local entrepreneurs and strengthen the community through these vibrant markets.