KUCHING: Face masks are not just the new ‘normal’ but they are also turning into fashion accessories.
A survey conducted by our reporter on Sunday found that face masks with various Chinese New Year (CNY) motifs are among the most popular fashion accessories found in many clothing stores in the city.
Max & Match store owner Angie Bong, when met, said CNY-themed face masks are, at present, the most popular items among her customers as it is almost time for the CNY celebration — less than two weeks.
“However, as we are still in the conditional movement control order (CMCO) period, customers only buy face masks in small quantities.
The various CNY-themed face masks sold at Max & Match. 
Max & Match shop in Plaza Merdeka.
“This is probably because we (Chinese) are not encouraged to celebrate CNY on a large-scale as the current Covid-19 situation in the country is very worrying.
“Fashion accessories such as festive attires are also less popular now compared to previous years before Covid-19.
“Before the world was hit by the Covid-19 pandemic, many people came to buy themed clothes during every festive celebration in the country,” said Bong, whose shop is located in Plaza Merdeka here.
This year, CNY will be celebrated on February 12 and 13.
