Raya Rush: Kelantan shoppers scramble for last-minute essentials

KOTA BHARU – Kelantan's Raya shopping rush is in full swing, with shoppers securing last-minute essentials.

While some plan ahead, others make hurried purchases due to work or financial constraints.

Despite early planning, some shoppers acknowledged last-minute shopping is sometimes unavoidable. - Bernama photo

Malls, bazaars and supermarkets buzz with shoppers seeking clothes, groceries and decorations.

For some, last-minute shopping is a necessity. Wan Muhamad Syafiq Naqiuddin Wan Mustapha, 24, a Royal Malaysian Navy officer, delayed preparations due to work.

"My leave was approved late, allowing me to return to Kota Bharu. I just arrived, so I'm buying Raya essentials for my wife and me. Prices seem slightly higher, impacting my budget.

"Despite a six-hour journey and six months away, the excitement is real. Festive songs and busy roads signal my return to Kelantan," he told Sinar Daily when met.

Conversely, some shoppers prefer structured planning. Rohana Husin, 48, a government worker and mother of six, believes in early preparation.

"I plan ahead to avoid stress and financial issues. Months before Raya, I buy clothes for my children. Staples like rice, especially glutinous rice for ketupat, were bought early. Fresh ingredients come closer to Raya," she said.

Rohana stated a significant price increase, altering shopping habits. "Prices are up, affecting our budget. Bazaars are less crowded; many prefer home cooking."

Haslina Ayub, 55, a government worker, agrees early shopping is ideal but understands last-minute needs.

"Raya preparations depend on finances. Shop early if you can, but last-minute is fine if necessary. The spirit of Raya matters," she said.

She observed older generations spend modestly, focusing on essentials.

"New clothes are a tradition, but avoid extravagance. Adjust spending wisely."

Despite early planning, she acknowledged last-minute shopping is sometimes unavoidable.

"Markets and bazaars get crowded closer to Raya. Those returning home add to the rush, seeking traditional foods," she added.

Muhd Danish Akmal, 20, a food and beverage worker, shopped last-minute due to his work schedule.

"I worked through Ramadan, leaving only the last days for Raya shopping. Clothes and slippers were must-haves. Prices increased, but I stayed within budget. Kelantan's festive atmosphere is lively and bazaar food is still affordable," he said.

Hanna Marzuki, 29, a public worker, preferred mid-Ramadan shopping but accepts last-minute needs.

"I shop in the middle of the month for essentials. Prices are up, but I find affordable options, keeping my outfit under RM50. Physical stores are crowded, causing traffic. Shop early to avoid the rush," she advised.