JOHOR BAHRU: As the Lunar New Year approaches on February 17, businesses in Johor Bahru are gearing up for a potential increase in visitors, including many from Singapore. However, Ivan Teo, chairman of the Malaysian Association of Hotels Johor chapter, expressed concerns that hotels have not yet experienced a noticeable jump in bookings.
“This year has been quieter so far. We haven’t seen a spike in visitors, including from China, who traditionally travel to Malaysia during this festive period,” Teo remarked. He mentioned that a clearer picture of bookings may emerge by the end of the month, aligning with the festivities.
Meanwhile, local business owners have observed a proactive trend among Singaporean shoppers, who have been placing early orders for plants and hampers in anticipation of the celebrations. Some businesses report having started deliveries up to two weeks in advance, with popular plant choices including cherry blossoms, chrysanthemums, orchids, and durable options like bamboo.
In addition to plant orders, Malaysian and Singaporean customers have begun purchasing hampers at a similar pace. A local hamper store owner indicated that they have already delivered around 300 hampers, many of which have gone to Singaporean clients. With an average of 10,000 orders annually, they are optimistic about matching last year’s numbers but acknowledge the challenge of competing with an increasing number of shops now offering hampers.
Despite the slower hotel bookings, the combination of early plant and hamper orders reflects a vibrant business spirit as the community anticipates the Lunar New Year celebrations, fostering hope for a busier festive season as the date draws nearer.