Vendors selling flowers and plants at the Gadong Tamu Bunga were disappointed over slower business sales over Ramadhan this year compared to the last.
“There are less people compared to last year,” said one of the vendors, Hajah J. “Maybe it is because most people are crossing the border to buy things, especially with a favourable exchange rate, or maybe this year people aren’t as keen on decorating their homes with flowers for Hari Raya,” she added.
In previous years, the market would be quite busy with people on Fridays and Sundays picking up new plants to add to their collections or buying gardening materials such as soil and fertiliser, she said.
Meanwhile, another vendor, Ayub from Kampong Tanjung Bunut, also said business has been slower compared to previous years.
“Last year, we had a good flow of people coming to buy during the fasting month, but I am not sure why not as many are coming this year,” he said, adding he isn’t too concerned as he believed it to be just part and parcel of running a business.
Rosinah binti Haji Salim however felt that the business is still the same. “What is important is that vendors observe what flowers will be trending among enthusiasts for a couple of months,” she said.
“Since it is the hot weather season, Bougainvilleas are now the most sought after among customers, especially those who like bright and beautiful colours,” Rosinah added.
“So following the trend, we just bring bougainvilleas to the market, and if we see a change in the trend, we bring a different flower or plant to the market.”
Hajah Rohana, who became a flower seller after retiring in 2004, said she has seen less people visiting the market this Ramadhan compared to the last.
“Actually, business was also slow last year, following the pandemic. It is even less this year,” she said. “One of the reasons could be the hot weather, making people reluctant to go out. People may also be spending more across the border, hence buying less in the country.” – Lyna Mohamad
