KUALA LUMPUR: Traders at Batu Caves are anticipating a surge in business with thousands of devotees, visitors and tourists set to attend today’s Thaipusam celebration.
Restaurant operator Shamini Sundaresan, 39, said the festival has always brought a significant boost in sales a week before and after the event.
However, she noted that business has been slower this year when compared to previous celebrations.
“Thaipusam falls on a weekday this year, so the crowds aren’t as large as they were last year. Weekends are usually our busiest days,” she said when met at her stall yesterday.
Despite the slow start, she said she was hopeful things would pick up.
“We expect more visitors to get to Kuala Lumpur by the evening before the festival.
“The visa-free entry for Indian tourists should also contribute to more tourists. So, business should be much better,” she added.
Having operated her business near Batu Caves for over a decade, Shamini commended the security measures in place, saying the presence of police personnel ensured a safe environment for visitors and traders alike.
“Many police officers are patrolling the area and this makes me feel safe,” she added.
Trader Maria Kumaran, 60, said Thaipusam has always been a golden opportunity to boost her sales.
Mainly selling religious paraphernalia and statues, she said the 10 days approaching Thaipusam were the busiest period.
“It is rare to maximise sales, so I decided to broaden my offerings during this period,” said Maria, who has set up an additional temporary stall in the area.
Another trader, Rajendran Pillai, 50, said he has seen more visitors this year.
“Many come here to shoot photos and videos too. While not all are spending money, it is still wonderful to see so many appreciating our Malaysian culture,” he said.
He expects his snack stall to hit a business peak today as devotees undertake their spiritual vows and rituals.
“I hope the momentum continues into the weekend. We welcome both locals and foreign tourists to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Thaipusam,” he added.
Batu Caves is a renowned Hindu spiritual site and the heart of Malaysia’s Thaipusam festival.
The complex houses several temples, including a prominent shrine to the deity Murugan.
Standing at its entrance is a towering 43m-high Murugan statue – one of the world’s largest.
The authorities have announced that seven major roads around Batu Caves will be closed in stages until Friday to ensure smooth traffic flow during the celebration.
