Traders enjoying brisk business near anti-Icerd rally venue

KUALA LUMPUR: Traders who set up stalls outside the National Mosque, some as early as 4pm on Friday, are cashing in on the throngs of participants expected at the anti-Icerd rally.

Shah Alam-based Azlina Othman, who had brought in 1,200 small towels with anti-Icerd slogans, each going for RM5, was totally sold out before Zohor prayers.

“I'd just ordered and gotten my stock a week before the rally. All three stalls I had set up to sell the towels have completely sold out,” she said.

Azlina had also stocked up on disposable ponchos, in case it rains, as has been the case for the past few days.

Hafiz Ibrahim, from Kuantan, is selling T-shirts priced between RM20 and RM50 each.

“Business is good so far,  I think I've sold out about half my stock by now.

“I was worried that the stock might not arrive in time, but luckily it did,” said Hafiz.

Mazlan Ibrahim, who hails from Tumpat, Kelantan but now resides in Shah Alam, was busy giving out free mineral water to rally-goers who wanted to buy water bottles to perform their ablutions.

“It's a way to both earn some small money, and also show my support, I've been here since 4am, to get a spot first,” Mazlan said.

Sisters Rosnah and Khatjah Arishad, who had set up their burger and drinks stall side by side, said they would stay till the end of the rally, expected to be around 6pm.

“Business gets better as the day goes on, but we're waiting till past 6pm, because the crowds will have to pass by here again on the way back to their buses,” she said.