KUCHING: Members of the public were excited when local councils announced the return of the Ramadan bazaars this year.
However, many councils have cancelled the bazaars in light of increasing Covid-19 cases statewide.
The people generally support the councils’ decisions to cancel the bazaars because of the risks to public safety and health.
They are all for virtual Ramadan bazaars because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
NAQIUDDIN IMRAN ABD RAZAK (Humanitarian worker)
It is good to cancel the Ramadan bazaars because of the spike in Covid-19 cases but the incomes of traders are affected. I think it is time to bring back the virtual Ramadan bazaars which are more convenient and safer for both buyers and sellers.
ROSNI BEREDAI (Sales promoter)
Because of the high daily number of Covid-19 cases, I think it is wise for local councils to cancel Ramadan bazaars to prevent the emergence of new clusters. Even though virtual Ramadan bazaars may not be as lively, they are good initiatives to help local sellers and are safer options for everyone.
ATIQAH AMANINA MOHAMMED (Student)
I support the local councils’ decisions because they are aimed at stopping the spread of Covid-19 cases and preventing the emergence of new clusters. With the availability of technology, virtual Ramadan bazaars can be successful. They will allow local sellers to carry on with their businesses.
EVA ELAYNA SAPOI (Student)
Everyone was looking forward to the Ramadan bazaars this year so many people are sad they have been cancelled. I’m sure everyone understands that it is a necessary preventative measure. I do not think it will not affect the spirit of the fasting month.
FAZRIN MUNIRAH (Programme officer)
I think virtual Ramadan bazaars are good substitutes because they allow local sellers to make their products based on the number of reservations or orders. This can prevent food wastage as not every product on sale at traditional Ramadan bazaars will be sold.
MOHD DANIAL FIQRI (Office assistant)
Although the decision made by local councils are for the people’s wellbeing, I cannot help but feel sad as Ramadan bazaars are often the highlights of the yearly Ramadan month and spirit. I think virtual Ramadan bazaars will not be able to offer the same experience. But I suppose we have to persevere and pray for the next Ramadan to be merrier without the Covid-19 pandemic.
AFIRA CHIN (Corporate and community officer)
I feel local sellers will be affected by the councils’ decisions. Ramadan bazaars provide them with the best opportunities to generate more incomes. Many people are sad but it is more important to stop Covid-19 from spreading.
AZZAHREENA JURAIMI (Entrepreneur)
Ramadan bazaars are among the busiest and crowded places so there is no guarantee that everyone will comply with the standard operating procedures (SOPs). I think virtual Ramadan bazaars that encourage contactless purchases are great and preferable alternative for everyone’s safety.
NURUL NABEELA SABRI (Sales admin)
It is good for the councils to cancel the Ramadan bazaars. If the bazaars are allowed to operate, they may contribute to even greater spikes in the number of Covid-19 cases. Although virtual Ramadan bazaars do not feel quite the same as the traditional ones, they are still sources of income for those heavily affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.
