Young Malaysians are adopting mindful spending for Raya, with many re-wearing outfits, shopping second-hand, and avoiding unnecessary debt to celebrate responsibly.
PETALING JAYA: This Raya, many young Malaysians are choosing to stick to budgets, re-wear older outfits, or shop sustainably, showing that the festival can still be celebrated in style without compromising financial responsibility.
Ain Syafiqah Zaki, 28, a broadcast journalist, said she prefers buying Raya outfits from resale platforms, choosing older designs to avoid overconsumption and standing out from the crowd.
“This year, I only bought two outfits and plan to re-wear my older pieces for the rest of Raya.
“I’m trying to be more mindful with my spending as well, especially since Raya outfits these days can easily cost RM250 and above, which I don’t think is worth it,” she said.
Ain Syafiqah said buy now, pay later (BNPL) schemes can be practical if users are disciplined, make payments on time, and spend within their means, especially since most plans carry no interest.
“Sometimes, people have the money to pay upfront but prefer instalments to avoid a big deduction all at once.
“At the end of the day, you have to ‘measure your clothes according to your own body,’ meaning spend according to your financial capability. If a new outfit helps you feel confident during Raya, go for it, but not at the expense of financial stress later.”
She also acknowledged social media’s influence on Gen Z spending, saying that constant scrolling exposes them to how influencers style and purchase their baju Raya outfits.
A student, who wants to be known as Jazlin Natasya, said she has spent less than RM300 on her baju Raya this year, adding that she tries to buy early to keep spending in check, though she sometimes overshoots her budget.
“It’s up to you to use the BNPL scheme, but don’t feel pressured to buy things just because others are.
“While we are easily influenced by social media influencers, there are also people who promote mindful spending, helping others avoid overconsumption,” she said.
For Luqman Nurhakim, 27, he usually spends a minimum of RM300 on himself and up to RM900 when including gifts for parents and siblings.
To him, BNPL is not necessary for baju Raya, which is mostly worn occasionally, and that it is better to consider whether a purchase is truly necessary or just for show.
“BNPL shouldn’t be used just for fleeting satisfaction. If it’s for important needs, it can be considered, but for baju Raya, it’s unnecessary. You might struggle with repayments after the festival.
“This isn’t really about any particular generation, it depends on individual attitudes and socioeconomic factors. Some try to stand out on Raya, even though the main goal should be to celebrate gratitude and joy.”
Meanwhile, assistant director Shazwana Zulaika Mohd Zan, 26, said she usually spends around RM600 on Raya outfits for herself and her mother, getting eight to 10 sets but this year, she spent only RM500 for two sets for herself and her mother.
“Raya only lasts a day, but repayments go on for days. It’s better to save early. For example, I started saving for this year’s Raya right after last year.
“Personally, I don’t like going into debt. I avoid pay-later plans or credit cards.”
