Aman Central in Kedah features a tropical house surrounded by lots of flora, batik fabrics and semi-transparent umbrellas. (Right) Sunway Carnival Mall’s festive decorations enliven traditional kampung scenery with an explosion of colours and artistic motifs. — Photos courtesy of malls
WITH multicultural Malaysia having many festive seasons throughout the year, there are always new and fascinating displays in shopping centres to admire.
In the northern region, malls like Aman Central in Kedah have put up lovely decorations to bring cheer to shoppers ahead of Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
Themed “Tropical Raya Paradise”, it is anchored by a grand cyan-coloured tropical house surrounded by paraffin lanterns, semi-transparent umbrellas, batik fabrics and lots of flora.
“It’s meant to be a trail for families and friends to explore. You will find Instagrammable spots at every turn.
“The aim was to create something that shoppers never imagined and that they would truly enjoy during their Raya break,” said Aman Central senior marketing communications manager Ken Chin.
On mainland Penang, Sunway Carnival Mall’s “Riuh Ria” festive display brings a kaleidoscopic explosion of colours to traditional kampung scenery.
There are also some murals done in collaboration with local contemporary artist Abdulrashade and his team, alongside batik motifs and giant hibiscus.
“We wanted to create something with a refreshing new look and feel, while supporting the local art community.
“Drop by and snap some nice shots for your social media page,” the mall’s general manager Chai Wen Yew said in welcoming shoppers.
Over on the island, Gurney Plaza’s decorations for “Batik Aidilfitri” also pay tribute to Malay heritage and culture, with a more classic kampung scene featuring a batik workshop.
Batik drapings, a giant bamboo arch, a trishaw, wau bulan (giant kite), sampan and even a chicken coop with a hen, rooster and little chicks, complete the look.
CapitaLand deputy general manager (mall management) Peter Chan said, “It is a celebration of nostalgia.
“With development taking place everywhere, such scenes are getting rarer by the year.
“We also wanted to highlight batik, something that is quintessentially Malaysian. This much-loved fabric is suitable for any occasion.”
Queensbay Mall’s “Kasih Aidilfitri” display also exudes rural charm.
With a wooden house at its heart, there are also mini padi fields, bird cages and other Old World elements. Above it, the wau bulan soars freely.
Centre manager Lee Sue Ling said, “Strike a pose and get the perfect shot. Joyful memories should be preserved for years to come.”
Gurney Paragon Mall accentuates the festive mood with “Sinaran Raya” decorations featuring a giant eight-pointed star surrounded by colourful flowers and lights.
Marketing communications manager Jasmine Tai said the eight-pointed motif was a representation of hope.
“After two years of the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdowns, this Hari Raya brings brighter hope.
“Things are getting back to normal and our Muslim friends can finally reunite with families,” said Tai.
Aman Central in Kedah features a tropical house surrounded by lots of flora, batik fabrics and semi-transparent umbrellas. (Right) Sunway Carnival Mall’s festive decorations enliven traditional kampung scenery with an explosion of colours and artistic motifs. — Photos courtesy of malls
Shoppers taking selfies against a backdrop of batik fabrics that are part of Gurney Plaza’s festive display, while (right) a giant, eight-pointed star surrounded by colourful flowers and lights is the focal point of Gurney Paragon Mall’s festive decorations. – JEREMY TAN/The Star
