Traders at Penang's Little India here are enjoying brisk businesses ahead of the Deepavali celebration this Thursday.
Checks by the New Straits Times yesterday morning showed the narrow streets of Little India, which include Lebuh Queen, Lebuh Pasar and Lebuh King, lined with tents displaying various wares to tempt customers.
Prices of items appear to have been heavily discounted, and customers were seen exiting shops with armfuls of bags.
The situation this year is a stark contrast from last year, when celebrations were muted due to the enforcement of the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO).
RSS Batik House owner Pervinder Singh, 40, said he was happy that his clothes shop was full, especially with the recent lifting of the interstate travel ban.
"I had customers coming from as far as Kuala Lumpur and Johor Baru to shop for Deepavali.
"Previously, we only had people coming out to shop during the weekend. Now, look at the crowd (at my shop) today (yesterday). I am pleased.
"Compared with last year, when we were under the CMCO, my business has increased by between 70 and 80 per cent. Looks like this Deepavali will be a joyous occasion for all," he said when met at his shop.
This is the first year Pervinder has had to extend opening hours from 7.30am to 9.30pm daily.
"You will be surprised to see people coming into the shop as soon as it opens," he added.
Pervinder, however, said all customers were subjected to strict standard operating procedures (SOP).
Housewife, T. Suguna, 49, who was shopping at Pervinder's shop, said her family would gather at her eldest sister's house in Sungai Nibong this year.
"With the lifting of the interstate travel ban, we can celebrate Deepavali as a big family again, and I am extremely excited.
"Last year, we did not have a chance to celebrate so this time it will be extra special," she said, showing the batik attire she bought for her mother, sister and herself.
At Vickram Sweets and Snacks stall, M. Thanaraj, 38, was busy packing muruku and snacks for his customers.
He said he had increased his stock by 20 per cent this year, in anticipation of a bigger crowd.
"This weekend will be the last before Deepavali. I am expecting a big crowd from tomorrow onwards right up to Sunday," he added.
VKN Sivasamy and Sons Sdn Bhd senior sales assistant S. Nanthini, 37, said orders for sarees had increased this year compared with last year.
She said the lifting of the interstate travel ban made it easier for people to shop.
"All our garments are imported from India and we have even brought in new designs. Our customers are coming in droves.
"We were closed for three months (due to the MCO) and opened for business only last month. I hope there will be no more closures after this," she said.
Customers walking into shops and stalls at Little India would have to mask up, show proof of full vaccination, check in using the MySejahtera app and have their temperature checked. - NST
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