CHRISTMAS shopping has been more vibrant this year, drawing thousands of visitors to the malls after Malaysians had to endure prolonged lockdowns since last year due to Covid-19. 

Shopping malls saw brisk business for the festivities, with volume nearing pre-pandemic levels. 

Since state borders reopened in October, more people started venturing out to shop. 

However, shoppers said they were still cautious when going out due to the Covid-19 epidemic.

Music consultant Joshua Devaratnam, 34 said it felt good to be able to go out after the lockdowns.

“While it is great to be able to visit the malls, but I have to be more sensitive towards the people around me. 

“This year, I’m more focused on trying to help people affected by the outbreak instead of splurging.”

Joshua said he limited his spending on gifts this year and focused more on essential items. 

“I will see what gifts people need and what is practical. Get something for the whole family instead of individual items.” 

However, he said that shopping at the malls was much better than online shopping. 

“I will get certain products online. But I still prefer malls as I can try on clothes. I also want to see the decorations at the malls.” 

He also said that the Christmas mood was a downer this year compared with years before. 

“I am not really seeing the mood as people are still coping with the pandemic and floods.” 

Banking executive Ginny Ngai, 26 said she might spend a bit more this year as people can now visit the malls.  

“I used to do most of my shopping online, but now we can visit the malls. However, I like both modes of shopping as there are varieties of items that I can get from both. 

“But, there are still concerns about going out. We always have to be careful and follow all the standard operating procedure (SOP).”

Ngai also said there won’t be any big celebrations this year as she wants to spend time with her family. 

“It will probably be a small affair with family and friends.”

Teacher A. Claudine, 35 said she might be spending more this year as she took the year off last year to have a baby. 

“Now, I’m back to work. I have more to spend this year. 

“However, I have to be more prudent in my spending since I have children to fend for.” 

She said that a major part of her expenses would be gifts for her husband and his huge family. 

Claudine said she prefers online shopping as she can do it in the comfort of her home. 

“There is no stress to find parking or crowds. My concerns with going to a mall are most people do not adhere to the 1m social distancing and I don’t feel comfortable with that.

“I have two children under the age of five so they aren’t vaccinated. One boy is below two years’ old, so he doesn’t wear a mask. I do not like putting them at risk.”

As for the celebrations this year, she said with some of the restrictions lifted, there was more freedom to move around and see her family.

“The celebrations pre-Covid were of course on a grander scale and I do miss it but sometimes a quieter celebration with just family can be more meaningful. 

“My family and I will not be attending church services or visiting friends. This decision was made to keep my family, especially my young children and elderly mother, safe.” 

Graphic designer Tabitha Prathna said she will be more thoughtful with spending this year. 

“Considering both the epidemic and the recent floods, I’ve tried to focus more on getting gifts that are meaningful over simply trying to check an item off my shopping list. 

“I have been taking advantage of the many online sales and promotional codes that come with them. 

“One thing I’ve enjoyed about Christmas shopping this year is sharing books and local brands I’ve discovered over the Covid outbreak.” 

Tabitha said for her, online shopping was definitely practical but there’s something wholesome about getting gifts from a physical store. 

“I enjoy speaking to the salesman or shop owner to get their recommendations. It’s a great way to discover gift ideas I wouldn’t have thought of otherwise.” 

On the Christmas mood, she said life has been challenging the last couple of years but finding little reasons to celebrate makes her hopeful for the future. 

“There are always ways to celebrate Christmas while keeping to the SOP. 

“What is important is that people are healthy and safe during this time.” – December 24, 2021.