Malaysians wonder if malls prioritise Halloween over Deepavali though former isn’t local culture

 

THIS year, both Deepavali and Halloween fall on the same date – Oct 31 (Thursday).

In a bid to lure customers, shopping malls have been decking out their premises with decorations for both.

But why so asked netizen Alawiyah Yussof (@AlawiyahYussof) on the X platform? She is perplexed that Halloween is given such prominence when it is neither a religious festival nor is part of Malaysian culture.

“A friend posted this on her FB (Facebook) wall but didn’t mention where,” Alawiyah attached an assortment of carved pumpkin decors in her post.

A few netizens confirmed that this was at 1Utama Shopping Centre in Bandar Utama.

Many felt that given that Deepavali is a major celebration here, it should be prioritised.

However, some commenters did claim that 1Utama did indeed put up Deepavali decor, highlighting that it is a large mall with sections having different decorations.

With some saying that it is a matter of demand and supply. Malls need to constantly reinvent and market themselves to attract customers.

Many did point out that the poster was making a mountain out of a molehill.

While FocusM understands where this poster is coming from, it is just a bit of fun. Not everything needs to be tied to local celebrations. It was also pointed out that the Halloween decor was merely part of the 1Utama’s decorations and it had been segmented.

It is precisely this attitude of close-mindedness that sees the rise of cultural exclusivity.

Whatever next?

For some to say that shops that display Christmas decorations cannot be certified halal?

Oh wait … – Focus Malaysia