Decades-old shops hopeful as business slowly picks up


Photos By ZAZALI MUSA

Phang repairing a watch at his shop in Jalan Trus, Johor Baru.

SHOPOWNERS in downtown Johor Baru are hoping business will improve when Malaysia moves into the Covid-19 endemic phase by the end of October.

Most of the shops here have been around for decades, including the century-old Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory, famous for its banana cakes baked in a coal-fired oven, that are popular with locals and Singaporeans.Lim hopes business will be in full swing once the border between Malaysia and Singapore reopens.Lim hopes business will be in full swing once the border between Malaysia and Singapore reopens.

Save 30% OFF The Star Digital Access

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

RM 9.73/month

Billed as RM 9.73 for the 1st month, RM 13.90 thereafter.

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 8.63/month

Billed as RM 103.60 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Metro News

Lighting-up ceremony to mark start of Miaohui cultural festival next month
Business partners make festive visit to SMG Penang office
JB Chinese heritage museum reopens
Dawn of 2026 with Johor’s new generation
Red langur and local empowerment
PIA e-gate full launch in February
Sewing programme boosts women’s income, promotes Sabah’s ethnic motifs
Reaping timeless lesson on gratitude for our food
Connecting top furniture producers with global buyers
Garden impressions for artistic home decor

Others Also Read