Bazaar traders in Johor and Singapore face inflation and rental hikes amid festive rush
Vendors across Ramadan bazaars in Johor Bahru and Singapore are grappling with rising operational costs and increasingly budget-conscious customers. Despite the challenges, Johor is seeing an influx of Singaporean shoppers preparing for Hari Raya.
As Ramadan progresses into its second week, bazaars become central gathering spots for food, culture, and festive shopping. However, inflation, rental increases, and stricter enforcement have reshaped the experience for traders and customers on both sides of the Causeway.
Vendors Struggle with Inflation and Rental Spikes
Stall operators like Romayana Rosli, who has been selling grilled fish at Johor Bahru’s Angsana Mall bazaar since 2016, are facing steep cost hikes. Her stall’s rental has surged over 70% in recent years to RM4,300, even as she tries to keep prices affordable. Vendors are also dealing with shortages in key supplies like cooking oil and costlier ingredients such as chicken and coconut milk.
Authorities have stepped up spot checks and rental regulations to curb profiteering. Traders like Mohammad Habil Jaffri report bi-weekly inspections, while Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim warned against permit transfers to middlemen. The scrutiny follows viral incidents from previous years, such as RM40 roti johns sparking outrage and enforcement officers seizing goods from unlicensed stalls.
Customer Habits Shift with Rising Prices
Consumers across Johor and Singapore are adapting their spending. Vendors report that shoppers now selectively purchase essentials rather than indulging in variety. Items like roti john, nasi arab, and murtabak have seen notable price increases, prompting many to visit bazaars less frequently or switch to home-cooked meals.
Despite price hikes, Johor’s tourism sector anticipates a spike in Singaporean visitors for Hari Raya shopping. In 2024, Singaporeans made over 17 million trips to Johor. Angsana Mall and over 400 bazaar sites are expected to be key attractions. Tourism Johor and hotel associations have noted increased traffic and consumer activity, particularly on weekends.
Traders say their motivation is not just financial. According to Hasnawi Ahmad of the Medan Selera Mahsuri Traders’ Association, many vendors view their work as a service to the community. Even as profits shrink, they aim to maintain variety and accessibility, keeping the spirit of Ramadan alive.
The Ramadan bazaars in Johor and Singapore reflect both resilience and hardship, where vendors strive to sustain livelihoods amid inflation and regulation. With Singaporeans contributing to cross-border festive spending, the economic and cultural interconnection continues to define the Ramadan experience in the region.
Sources: CNA (2025), The Straits Times (2025)
Keywords: Johor Bazaar Vendors, Singapore Ramadan Shoppers, Festive Food Prices, Ramadan Cost Challenges
