Hikmah Exchange Ramadan bazaar offers one-stop Raya shopping experience

KUCHING (Feb 22): The Ramadan bazaar at Hikmah Exchange is attracting steady crowds with its vibrant selection of festive essentials, food and local craftsmanship, offering visitors a one-stop destination for Hari Raya preparations.

On Sunday, The Borneo Post took a walk around the bazaar grounds to meet some of the traders behind the colourful booths.

Among them was 52-year-old Meriam Atim, founder of Meria Henna Art. With more than 20 years of experience in the business, her journey began with a physical shop before she shifted her focus to operating booths.

“On my regular days, I will be at Waterfront Kuching and I also set up booths during special events like this. I have always loved drawing and tattoos, (but as Muslims) we are not permitted to do tattoos so I chose henna as my creative outlet,” she said.

She described her sales at the bazaar as satisfactory even though the number of customers was initially lower when Ramadan began.

“Usually there will be an increase in visitors closer to the breaking of fast and in the evening.

“This is truly a one-stop destination for people to get cookies, accessories and many other festive essentials ahead of the celebration. I hope readers of The Borneo Post will come and visit us here,” she said, adding that the festive mood has helped boost interest in henna designs ahead of the celebrations.

Meanwhile, 31-year-old Siti Adeena Muneera Zakaria, the owner of Mantra Collection, is also drawing attention with her handmade batik viscose pieces.

“I started the brand in 2019 and the fabrics and materials are sourced from Indonesia, with patterns inspired by traditional Indonesian batik. My venture was driven purely by passion.

“With a background in sewing classes, I also pursued baking studies before realising my stronger interest towards fashion,” she said.

Through Mantra Collection, she hopes to redefine perceptions of batik which were commonly associated with the older generation.

“Batik used to be worn mainly by the older people but by incorporating contemporary cuts and designs, I want to make batik accessible and appealing to everyone, regardless of age.

“Sales have been encouraging, with support coming not only from walk-in customers but also from online buyers (from our online shop) outside Kuching,” she said.

The Ramadan bazaar is open daily until March 18 from 1pm to 10pm. From March 6 to 18, operating hours will be extended from 10am until midnight, giving shoppers ample time to browse cookies, accessories, festive outfits, perfumes and a variety of food offerings.