KUCHING: Shoppers here yesterday thronged malls and shops to make last-minute Chinese New Year (CNY) purchases.
Checks by New Sarawak Tribune found hundreds of people were at the malls as early as 9am to shop for fresh produce and other essentials.
Self-employed Wong Kin Lee, 48, was among the crowds who turned up at a wholesale outlet at Ellis Road to buy food for the reunion dinner today as well as CNY tidbits for visitors.
Wong, who was accompanying her sons, said they wanted to take full use of the holiday promotions and offers.
At MJC, a shopper who only want to be known as Bryan said he was shopping for various kinds of beverages as he expected most of his friends to visit him this year.
Meanwhile, many customers were also seen yesterday at the barbecued pork or “bak po” shops at Padungan at noon.
Kenneth Tan said barbecued pork was a must for Chinese New Year and a popular snack to be served to visitors.
“Most of us only purchase “bak po” as the Chinese New Year approaches, so buying and eating ‘bak po’ during the celebration makes it extra special,” he said.
Meanwhile, Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang advised celebrants to spend prudently during the festive season.
“I would advocate the age old tradition of saving consistently, avoiding debt, spending wisely and investing for the future to meet our families’ needs in any economic climate.
“Looking out for discounts in supermarket items during the festive season is a good start. It will be nice to treat your family to a nice meal though,” said Lo.
