BY FASIHA KHUSHIRI & NUR ATIQAH QURATULAINI
KUCHING: In the vibrant tapestry of cultural celebrations, Hari Raya Aidilfitri stands as a radiant gem, celebrated with joy and unity among Muslims worldwide.
As the auspicious occasion approaches, itis customary for families and friends to exchange heartfelt greetings, symbolising love, forgiveness, and renewal.
Amid the traditional practices and modern advancements, one enduring tradition holds a special place in the hearts of many: the exchange of Hari Raya greeting cards.
These intricately designed cards, adorned with vibrant colours, intricate patterns, and heartfelt messages, serve as tangible tokens of affection and well-wishes during this festive season.
Yet, in an era dominated by digital communication, where e-cards and social media reign supreme, the significance of these physical cards begs closer examination.
Venturing into the bustling aisles of bookstores, we embark on a journey to discover the role of Hari Raya greeting cards in contemporary society.
“With the widespread adoption of digital communication platforms and social media, many people now opt for e-greeting cards or electronic messages to convey their Hari Raya wishes.
“This shift towards digitalisation has resulted in a decrease in the demand for traditional paper greeting cards,” said Suria Bismillah, 38, a bookstore employee on today (April 1).
“Younger generations, in particular, tend to favour convenience and immediacy in communication. They may prefer sending e-greetings or messages via social media platforms over purchasing and mailing physical greeting cards. As a result, the demand for physical greeting cards has decreased.”
She commented further, bookstores may find it economically challenging to stock and sell physical greeting cards, especially if there is low demand for these items.
With limited shelf space and the need to prioritise more profitable merchandise, bookstores may choose to allocate resources to other products that yield higher returns.
“While bookstores traditionally sold a variety of greeting cards for different occasions, specialty stores that focus solely on greeting cards may offer a wider selection and cater specifically to the needs of consumers looking for Hari Raya greeting cards.
“This competition may further contribute to the decline in sales of greeting cards in bookstores,” she added.
