KLANG – The business community here is very much affected by the cancellation of the Deepavali bazaar following the rise of Covid-19 cases in the area.
Klang is also affected as its sub-districts are under the conditional movement control order (CMCO) for two weeks.
This has prompted the Klang Municipal Council (MPK) to cancel the upcoming Deepavali bazaar, which was expected to provide much relief for the business community here.
Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KLSICCI) Klang district liaison chairman NP Raman said the local council has made a good decision as the annual bazaar would have occupied much of the roads in Little India here.
“We need to consider the safety of the people and abide by standard operating procedure (SOP). If the MPK can provide a large field for traders and organise them properly, then we can continue with the Deepavali bazaar,” he told The Vibes.
However, he said the government needs to seriously balance between life and livelihood of the people as businesses are severely affected due to the stringent measures implemented under CMCO.
“Little India in Klang is considered a revenue generator for many. Business owners here can lose up to millions of ringgit because of one government announcement.”
He added that the government should study and programme the Covid-19 decisions before announcing it to the people so as not to cause undue panic.
Malaysian India Provision Shop Owners association past president P.S. Rajah said the business community is very much affected and worried about how they can generate revenue to keep afloat.
“The situation is detrimental. Many of us are unsure how to proceed.”
He said it will be a very tough battle ahead as the government is considering appeals from all.
However, Rajah said Deepavali and other festive celebrations provide a much needed relief for the small traders as it gives them 30 to 45 days of business to survive.
“But now, with the cancellation, how are they going to overcome their financial situation? How long is the government going to keep on helping?”
He said Little India in Klang has never encountered such a situation as they usually have vibrant businesses and attract outstation crowds during the weekends.
Rajah said on a good day, the Deepavali bazaar can attract up to 20,000 people to the area, which in turn generate revenue for the businesses in Little India here.
“But now we are impacted badly because sales have dropped more than 50%. If a shop generates RM1 million per month, now they can barely make it past RM500,000. Everything is at a slower pace.”
Meanwhile, Klang MP Charles Santiago said given the spike in Covid-19 cases, the Deepavali bazaar is forced to cancel.
“However, I must distinguish the fact that the Deepavali bazaar attracts small traders from all over the country to do business. The main shops in Little India, Klang remain open for those who want to buy Deepavali goods.” – The Vibes, October 13, 2020
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