KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 7 — The 24th Deepavali Carnival at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil near here, which attracted nearly 200,000 visitors, including foreign tourists, proves the event is not merely a festive shopping venue but also a platform to spur local businesses.

Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan said the encouraging response to the nine-day carnival, which began October 30, gave 700 entrepreneurs an opportunity to expand their market reach and boost sales.

He said that, based on his observation, business activities at participating stalls showed positive growth.

“Preparations have indeed been good. I visited the stalls here, and their sales have been very good. I understand that this is the 24th time this carnival has been held.

“Some visitors came from Medan, Singapore and Australia. Sometimes they come here just as tourists to visit Malaysia, but after attending this carnival, they return repeatedly,” he told reporters after visiting the carnival yesterday.

Ramanan said the government is also prepared to look into suitable support and assistance to empower entrepreneurs participating in the carnival.

The carnival gathered various exhibitors and local entrepreneurs offering goods, food, beverages and essential items for Deepavali. — Bernama