KOTA KINABALU: A tiny fully decorated Christmas tree that appeared in a mall here has become the talk of the town in the past week.
Internet users were abuzz on social media over the lone one-meter-high tree that appeared in the heart of Centre Point Sabah’s Palm Square last Wednesday.
Many joked that the shopping mall had run out of budget for a larger tree, while others speculated that it could be a jab at another mall displaying a 2.4m-high tree in its atrium.
The humour escalated when, in just two days, the tree “grew” almost five times taller, with people playfully asking what fertiliser was used to achieve such rapid growth.
Centre Point Sabah’s public relations executive Meredith Madani clarified that the mini tree was a marketing gimmick.
“We found the public’s comments amusing. The mini tree was installed last Wednesday to draw attention and as a placeholder while we completed other decorations.
“We did not expect such a quick reaction from netizens. While there were negative comments, many were positive too, but we take no offence,” she said.
Madani revealed that they initially planned to place a small snowman next to the mini tree.
However, when the post went viral, they decided not to escalate the situation further.
The mini tree was replaced with a 4.5m tree on Friday for the launch of the shopping mall’s month-long Gifts of Joy Donation Drive the following day.
Madani said the initiative encourages the public to donate new or used toys and books for children in need.
“We hope to help fulfil the dreams of children in need. There’s no better time to create magic than during the festive season,” she said.
She added that the drive is part of the mall’s Toys Factory-themed event.
She said the collected items will be used to create fun corners for children and the public at several locations.
“We will finalise these locations soon,” Madani said.
She added that the toy and book collection boxes have started gaining public attention, with many noting that their children have outgrown these items and they will be better utilised elsewhere.
The 34-year-old shopping mall, one of Kota Kinabalu’s oldest, has transformed its space into a whimsical wonderland to embrace the Christmas spirit.
