WHAT Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng started in 2023 as an experiment to redistribute unwanted items has today matured into a community tradition drawing people from various racial and social backgrounds.
At the Air Itam Free Market 6.0 held at Pusat Penang2030, Ng said perceptions about free markets had changed over time.
“People have come to understand that the free market is not about charity in the traditional sense, but about giving unwanted items that are still in good condition a second life by passing them on to those who could use them,” he said.
Ng said the growing popularity of the free market also suggested that people were no longer embarrassed to take what they need, nor were they driven to take more than their fair share.
“Instead, they are learning that the true value of the market lies not in what they can get, but in ensuring everyone has a chance to benefit so that families can also stretch household budgets.
“This shift in their attitude is due to a growing sense of responsibility among the market’s visitors,” he said.
Ng recalled that when the initiative first started, some people would take as many items as possible out of fear that they might miss out.
Today, the atmosphere is markedly different, he added.
“Visitors are much more considerate and orderly.
“They make a conscious decision to take only what they need,” he said.
Ng noted that another challenge in the beginning was attracting a diverse crowd, with participation largely limited to a particular community due to the area’s demographics.
“As awareness spread, however, the market began drawing people from different racial and social backgrounds, and even those from other areas,” he said.
Also present at the free market was Bukit Gelugor MP Ramkarpal Singh.
Items such as pre-loved books, shoes, suitcases, handbags, soft toys, clothes, plastic containers and electrical items were up for grabs at the event.
Factory worker Azrul Che Mat, 33, was spotted with his six-year-old daughter Aishah Azrul picking colourful headbands and a Pikachu soft toy.
“This is our first time at a free market. Since my little girl loves headbands and soft toys, I let her choose what she wants.
“I am happy that there is such a place for us to get the items that we want or need for free.
“It is very well organised and I do not see anyone rushing to grab anything.
“It is very orderly and this reflects the spirit of unity and understanding among Malaysians,” he said.
Housewife M. Renuka, 35, was there to pick up some toys, school bags and shoes for her three children.
“They are growing up very fast and cost of things are expensive these days.
“Since I cannot afford to keep buying new toys, school bags and shoes for them, I decided to come to the free market to look for those items.
“The goods here are only pre-loved, not damaged.
“They are still usable and it is good enough for my children.
“However, I make sure I clean or wash the items thoroughly first before giving it to them,” Renuka added.
Housewife Joey Yee, 45, said it was her second time at the free market and she had eyed some pretty porcelain dinner plates and cutlery.
“Since I cook a lot, my plates and cutlery naturally go through a lot of wear and tear.
“I came here today to stock up on some fresh replacements.
“My children have also donated their unused books here,” she said, adding that such programmes help children understand that reusing donated items kept waste out of landfills.
