RUNNING a small business enterprise is full of challenges, especially those doing it part-time to earn some extra income at Ramadan bazaars.
Food vendors have had to contend with a multitude of consumer grouses ranging from high prices to hygiene.
Now, non-F&B (food & beverage) traders have also voiced their concerns over slowing business as highlighted in a post on X by rightist social commenter اکو انق ملايو جاتي (@AKUANAKWATAN).
— اکو انق ملايو جاتي (@AKUANAKWATAN) March 8, 2026
As shared from a post on the KelantanFA.com Facebook page, an entrepreneur hoping to seize upon shopper’s festive spirit has apparently been left disappointed thus far.
It was claimed that the seed money required for the business was RM10,000 alongside the RM3,500 rental for the plot at the Ramadan bazaar but the takings have been underwhelming thus far – a meagre RM500 after 21 days of trading.
The post has generated 131.4K views at the time of writing with commenters keen to share their thoughts on business trends affecting Ramadhan bazaars.
It was a sign of the times surmised one tech savvy observer who argued that such business models were no longer relevant in 2026.
Even online businesses experienced difficulties and losses never mind traders with physical set-ups whom he believed need to stock branded products to attract customers. “Don’t dig your own graves,” was his pertinent advice.
Echoing this sentiment, another commenter claimed that the bazaars were only good for food-related endeavours.
Other businesses should look at online platforms such as TikTok and Shopee to reach a wider audience who crave a comfortable and convenient shopping experiences, especially those looking for their baju Raya.
Highlighting the difference in prices, one irate consumer argued that consumers are put off when items are marked up too high.
Citing a tripod that cost RM80 at a Ramadan bazaar was available at a fraction of that price online – a mere RM30 – this commenter was in no doubt as to reason for the slowdown in trade.
It was understood that high rentals at these bazaars may cause slightly higher prices but it should not be an excuse for extreme profiteering.
Apart from uncompetitive pricing, one mall rat preferred shopping complexes as these would have brand authorised outlets allowing for peace of mind.
One frequent bazaar visitor opined that customer focus was on satisfying their hunger pangs, first and foremost.
Few would visit Ramadan bazaars with the intention of buying clothes as they would be tired after a day’s fasting. Any shopping would usually be done in the comforts of an air-conditioned shopping mall.
One commenter was in no doubt as to who was at fault, singling out “mafia bazar” from strangling small businesses with extortionate rental rates. The rental should NOT be that high if the plot was rented directly from the municipal authorities.
Highlighting the ridiculousness of the situation faced by many small traders at these Ramadan bazaars, one commenter shared a picture purportedly of the Kemaman Waterfront bazaar site.
It was claimed that traders were having to fork out RM4,000 in rental for a site that welcomed visitors with a sorry-looking plywood gateway and not much else.
Yes, the challenges are many. Small- and part-time traders will need to move with the times.
As pointed out by this business savvy commenter – like it or not – most physical businesses will need an online presence to succeed. Those relying on old school business methods are doomed to fail. – March 9, 2026
Main image credit: Astro Awani
