KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 4 – Firecrackers and fireworks traders are anticipating brisk sales for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations following the government’s decision to approve the sale of such items.
A survey conducted by Bernama today around Jalan Kepong Baru in Kepong revealed that a crowd of traders have set up stalls on road pavements, providing customers with a diverse range of choices.
There were more than 40 types of fireworks and firecrackers on display at almost every stall with prices ranging from RM10 to RM900, according to the features and size of the items.
However, the traders said sales were not as brisk as they wished yet because customers usually buy them at the last minute.
“The celebration is still not ‘’hot’ yet. There is still one week to go for Chinese New Year. Chinese Malaysians have a pattern of buying at the last minute or three days before the festival.
“Or maybe some of them haven’t received their salary or bonus yet,” reckoned one trader, Lee Poh Ann, 44, when met by Bernama.
Meanwhile, 49-year-old Derrick Chan is confident that sales will skyrocket due to the easing of permits and licensing.
“I already have my permit from the police. I have been selling firecrackers and fireworks for more than 10 years here. Most of my buyers are regular customers,
“I think I will make a lot of money this time. But one has to look at the weather too. If it’s sunny, like now, it’s okay, but if it rains, it’s a challenge,” he remarked.
He added that among the most popular types of firecrackers and fireworks are the ‘Happy Boom Pili Cracker’ and ‘Happy Boom Happiness Mountain’.
In February last year, the Cabinet decided to allow the sale of firecrackers and fireworks according to guidelines set by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
