Kota Kinabalu: Wisma Majlis Ugama Islam Sabah (Muis) has evolved into the location of choice for city residents to buy necessities in preparation for the upcoming Aidilfitri celebrations.
A survey at Wisma Muis, here, found throngs of people, including residents from outside the district, taking advantage of the weekend to bring their families to shop for Hari Raya essentials such as baju kurung, baju Melayu, songkok, hijabs and traditional delicacies at the mall, located near the State Mosque, as early as 9am.
Civil servant Kamarudin Minin, 59, from Petagas, said he chose Wisma Muis as the location to shop for Aidilfitri because traders here offer wide selections of Malay clothes and cakes.
“Today (Saturday) is very unusual because many people flocked to Wisma Muis for their initial preparations but I hope everyone follows the standard operating procedures (SOPs) and maintains physical distancing to prevent the spread of Covid-19,” he said.
Another shopper, Mazuin Mustapa, 43, from Papar, said it has become his ritual to buy Hari Raya necessities such as baju kurung and delicacies at Wisma Muis because in addition to the variety, prices were also very reasonable.
“Preparations for Hari Raya this year are more lively compared to the past two years, but still moderate like buying delicacies as we’re planning to hold a small open house (events),” said Mazuin who will spend RM1,000 on Aidilfitri this year.
Mohd Azmi Rajamudin, 43, from Inanam, meanwhile has put the easing of restrictions by the Government to good use by shopping for baju kurung and baju Melayu for his children compared to two years ago, when he did not prepare for the celebration due to the strict SOP.
“In the last two years, there were no preparations as we just sat at home. Now that there is a little freedom, I brought my family to Wisma Muis for Aidilfitri shopping because the clothes are beautiful but still cheap and worthwhile,” he said.
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