Shoppers flock to malls across Malaysia for festive buys, with tourists praising the warm, inclusive Christmas atmosphere in the multicultural nation
KUALA LUMPUR: The Christmas spirit is filling the air as people across Malaysia flock to shopping malls for festive preparations and year-end promotions.
A Bernama survey found major malls adorned with colourful decorations and giant Christmas trees, creating a vibrant festive atmosphere.
The iconic Suria KLCC shopping mall remains a focal point for both local and foreign visitors seeking to shop and capture memorable photographs.
Tourist Liam Harrison, 34, from the United Kingdom, said this is his first time celebrating Christmas in Malaysia.
He described the pre-celebration festivities as similar to those in his home country.
Another tourist, Sarah Bannet, 38, from Australia, said she was impressed by the lively Christmas preparations in Malaysia.
“Although Malaysia is a Muslim-majority country, the Christmas atmosphere here feels warm and family-friendly,” she said.
“The light decorations, music and activities around shopping malls make it feel like a real celebration.”
In Penang, a survey at a shopping centre in Bandar Sunway Seberang Jaya found a very lively atmosphere with most premises offering special promotions.
Management created a special space decorated with colourful ornaments resembling a fantasy world to attract visitors, especially children.
In Sarawak, shopping malls in Kuching were also filled with people making preparations, drawn by year-end promotional offers.
Sarawak Energy officer Ollingga Lowance, 41, said early preparations make it easier to plan the celebration with family.
“Every year, I make early preparations and buy clothes for my children and myself, including decorating the home for Christmas,” said the father of four.
“If we keep this to the last minute, then we will be jostling with other people, so that’s what I’m trying to avoid.”
Private sector employee Suzzy Ellyana Jeffery, 31, said the year-end promotions are her main draw for shopping.
The discounts offered help her get festive essentials at affordable prices.
In Sabah, civil servant Marryan Razan, 40, said she is making simple preparations and has only bought one new outfit.
“What makes me even happier is being able to prepare Christmas gifts for my 20 nieces and nephews,” said the resident of Kampung Tiong, Tamparuli.
The Sabah government will organise the state-level Christmas Day celebration with the theme “Hope For Peace In Love” on 16 December.
The event will be held at Padang Merdeka from 6.50pm to 10pm. – Bernama
