KUCHING: Valentine’s Day on February 14 every year is one of the most awaited days for lovers around the world.
Malaysia is no exception as it is much awaited, especially among young people, to be celebrated as a symbolic sharing of love.
It is not lost on the business sector which touts all sorts of products as gifts of love for that day.
A Suara Sarawak survey in the city yesterday found that fresh flower vendors have already been milking the occasion.
Goh Chai, 25, who runs a fresh flower stall in Jalan Tun Jugah, said the reception she received from the sale of flowers this year was quite encouraging.
“Our strategy here is to offer bouquets at affordable prices without compromising on quality and appearance.
“Whether the bouquet is smaller or bigger, there is an option for everyone and I am happy to be able to meet the needs of customers,” she said.
Chai, who has been active in selling products for the Valentine’s Day celebration the past three years, said each time the occasion has been robust, especially among non Muslims.
She explained that the stall she worked on would operate until 11pm to give more city residents the opportunity to come and buy gifts for their lovers.
“I sell flowers from as low as RM15 and other gifts such as flower arrangements from as low as RM50 to RM500 to give to each partner.
“It is hoped that couples who receive this gift will be happy and excited because they are appreciated by their partners,” she explained.
Meanwhile, Nur Farra Najihah, 21, who also runs a gift and flower stall in Jalan Tun Jugah said, she has been selling flowers since February 11 and it has become a source of income for her.
“Every year, apart from the convocation ceremony, Valentine’s Day is a day we look forward to because it provides sustenance to traders like us,” she said.
She said, red roses are the best selling so far because red roses are synonymous to love.
Besides Jalan Tun Jugah, stalls of fresh flowers for Valentine’s Day are also available along Jalan Padungan, Jalan Rock, Tebingan Kuching, Jalan Ban Hock and more.
However, a survey of Kota Samarahan found no evidence of a stall selling flowers in conjunction with Valentine’s Day.
Usually, Kota Samarahan becomes the focus of flower sellers when the convocation ceremony of Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) and Universiti Teknologi Mara (UITM) arrives in October every year.
