KLUANG: The buzz of activities surrounding the Mahkota by- election has given businesses here a boost.
Kluang town, located more than 100km from Johor Baru, has become the temporary base for dozens of people, including campaigners from all over the country, media personnel and political observers, among others.
Ng Ah Toh, who runs a stall serving noodles at a popular coffee shop here, said she has seen a surge in customers since nomination day last Saturday.
“Last Saturday was one of the busiest days I have ever had as the candidates also dropped by to meet voters who were dining at the kopitiam.
“I was on my feet for hours and did not even have a minute’s break as orders kept coming in one after another,” said the 68-year-old when met at the shop.
Ng said despite having to take on more work on that day, she was grateful for the boost in business, thanks to the by-election.
“I’m running the stall alone, so I was caught off-guard and was not prepared for the sudden surge in customers.
“However, I’m glad for the brisk business. I’m still receiving more customers than usual now, but it’s not as hectic as that day,” she said.
N. Geeva, 43, who runs a shop selling muruku, said he has been getting more customers than usual even before nomination day.
“There are campaigners and political observers from other states who are here for the by- election, including from Melaka and Terengganu.
“Some of them may want to buy some goodies to bring back home to their families and friends, and snacks such as muruku are among popular choices.
“Since many people know my shop, I have been getting more customers than usual, especially during lunch hours,” said the third-generation-owner of the shop, which also sells traditional Indian attire and prayer items.
Mohammad Aieri Jeffri, 21, who works at a stall selling desserts and drinks here, said he expects more customers as election day draws near.
“On the first day (during nomination), there was a sudden influx of people dropping by at the shop, with many of them first-time customers. Things have slowed down a bit, but I believe it will get hectic again when the election draws closer, especially on weekends,” he said.
