Johor’s bazaars and malls attract waves of Singaporean shoppers lured by promotions and exchange rates
As Hari Raya draws near, Johor is witnessing a surge in visitors from Singapore eager to stock up on festive goods, driven by attractive prices and a favourable currency exchange.
Johor’s festive shopping and Ramadan bazaars have become key destinations for Singaporeans, who benefit from the RM3.30-to-SGD1 exchange rate. With Angsana Johor Bahru Mall and Uda Business Centre at the centre of the action, local traders are seeing early and bulk purchases.
Shopping Spree Fueled by Exchange Rate
The RM3.30-to-SGD1 rate has enticed many Singaporeans to cross the causeway, with some reportedly spending up to S$1,000 (RM3,300) in one trip. From traditional biscuits to banana crisps and rempeyek, bulk purchases are now the norm, with wheeled luggage carts being a common sight. Shoppers like Faridah Ibrahim from Punggol say they return annually, often taking advantage of bundle deals offering four jars for RM100.
Local Traders See Early Demand
Traders like Zulkifli Mohd Hafan have reported high footfall since the start of Ramadan, with Singaporean customers outpacing local buyers in both quantity and timing. While Malaysians typically buy closer to Raya, Singaporeans are seen securing stock early for distribution to extended families and neighbours. With over 60 biscuit types and 30 crisp varieties on offer, the seasonal demand has helped vendors maintain strong momentum.
Angsana Johor Bahru Mall, one of the main retail hubs, drew 4.5 million visitors during Ramadan last year. Its chief operating officer, Imran Salleh, expects that number to rise this year. The influx is not only boosting retail but also food and hospitality sectors nearby, adding to the region’s festive economy.
Despite rising stall rental rates, many Johor traders prefer the current system—managed by NGOs and private organisers—over full local council control. Traders like Fatimah Sarudin and Ahmad Shafiq Halim argue that direct council management would cause unnecessary delays in communication and approvals. Meanwhile, organiser Md Izam Ibrahim stresses the difficulty councils may face in monitoring traders across 228 approved bazaars statewide.
Rental Regulations and Monitoring Still Enforced
Johor authorities have set ceiling prices for bazaars located on council land to prevent unfair rental hikes. Organisers are expected to remain compliant with hygiene and operational standards, and failure to do so could lead to permit revocations. However, bazaars held on private land may see slightly higher charges due to added facilities like canopies, explained Md Izam.
The seasonal boom in Johor serves not just as a cross-border shopping event but also as a cultural and economic bridge. For Singaporeans, it offers access to festive products at unbeatable prices, while for Johor’s traders, the influx ensures vibrant Ramadan bazaars and sustained commercial activity across the border.
Sources: NST Online (2025), The Star (2025)
Keywords: Angsana Johor Bahru, Festive Biscuit Shopping, RM3.30 Exchange Rate, Johor Bazaar Traders
