KUCHING: Shopping malls across the city were bustling as shoppers rushed to make last-minute preparations ahead of Christmas. Traders reported a clear rise in sales, especially between December 21 and December 23.
Food vendors said festive favourites such as biscuits, dried fruits and snacks were in high demand as customers prepared for family gatherings and open houses.
Siti Nur Saffiyah Haris Shaiffuddin of Kedey Pak Lee said customer numbers usually picked up after noon, with crowds peaking at around 5pm.
“Sales have definitely increased, especially during the last-minute rush,” she said, adding that the stall will continue operating until early January.
Sweet Treats stall owner Nursafwanah Malaya shared a similar view, saying sales were strongest on December 22 and 23.
“Biscuits are the most popular, especially butter, Biscoff, makmur and Nestum. Many customers are buying them as Christmas gifts,” she said, adding that peyek and peanuts were also among the best-selling items.
The festive atmosphere also drew visitors from outside Sarawak. Mac Guan and Mirassela Goergeshua, an Iban couple from Brunei, chose Kuching for their Christmas holiday.
“This is our third time visiting Kuching. The food, the atmosphere and the convenience make it easy to travel here,” they said, while praising the mall decorations.
Domestic tourists also added to the holiday buzz. Teo Ging Tiing from Sibu said her family arrived in Kuching on Christmas Eve to combine celebrations with leisure activities, including a children’s colouring competition.
For 66-year-old Paul Unga from Singai, shopping on December 24 remains a family tradition.
“We usually do last-minute shopping today, but only for small items. Most preparations were done earlier,” he said.
Paul, who plans to celebrate Christmas at Kampung Pelaman Skiad in Bau, said this year’s celebration would be more relaxed, as his daughter is currently living in the United Kingdom.
With Christmas Day approaching, traders remain optimistic that the festive spirit and last-minute rush will continue to drive sales, reflecting Kuching’s lively holiday mood and its appeal as a seasonal destination.
