RAMADAN BAZAAR TRADERS IN LABUAN EARN PRAISE FOR TRANSPARENT PRICING, FAIR PACKAGING

LABUAN, Feb 26 (Bernama) -- Consumers on this duty-free island have expressed satisfaction over the transparent pricing and fair packaging practices adopted by most traders at the Ramadan bazaars here, saying they feel safe and ‘not cheated’ while making their purchases.

A Bernama survey at several popular Ramadan bazaar sites found that clearly displayed price tags, standardised portion sizes, and sealed packaging have contributed to boosting buyers’ confidence amid rising living costs.

Civil servant Nur Aisyah Ahmad, 34, said she was pleasantly surprised to see most food items labelled with visible price tags.

“In previous years, we sometimes had to ask for prices and there were differences depending on the customer … this year, the prices are clearly stated and the portions are reasonable. Therefore, I feel more confident making purchases for my family,” she said.

Private sector employee Mohd Hafiz Rahman, 41, said transparent pricing helped him plan his spending better during Ramadan.

“When the price is clearly displayed, we can compare and decide without feeling pressured. So far, I find the traders here honest and fair with their packaging,” he said, adding that the sealed containers also ensured hygiene.

Housewife Siti Norlaila Jamal, 38, echoed the same sentiment, noting that most traders used proper containers and labelled food items systematically.

“As a mother, I look at both price and portion … the packaging is neat and the portion matches the price. I don’t feel cheated,” she said.

University student Daniel Abdullah, 22, said the clear labelling reflected a more professional approach by traders.

“It shows they are serious about business … even drinks are labelled properly, with fixed prices. That makes it easier for students like me to budget,” he said.

Meanwhile, traders said maintaining transparency is crucial to sustaining customer trust, especially in a small community like Labuan.

Nasi ayam vendor Roslan Abdul Karim, 45, said he ensured all his food containers were pre-packed with standard portions and labelled before the bazaar opened.

“We prepare everything in advance and put price stickers on each pack … customers can see clearly what they are paying for … this avoids misunderstandings,” he said.

Kuih-muih seller Ajilisa Singgam, 47, said she had maintained the same pricing structure for the past two years despite fluctuating ingredient costs.

“We try our best not to increase prices drastically. Labuan is a duty-free island, so we also benefit from certain lower costs. It is important that customers feel comfortable buying from us,” she said.

Beverage trader Ahmad Farid Shah, 29, said social media exposure had also pushed traders to be more transparent.

“Nowadays, if you overcharge or reduce portions, it will go viral … so, we make sure our packaging is fair and prices are clearly displayed,” he said.

Grilled lamb seller Ramdan Bakri, 47, said mutual respect between traders and customers was key to sustaining the Ramadan bazaar atmosphere.

“We want repeat customers …if they feel cheated once, they won’t come back … so, we are careful with our price tags and portion sizes,” he added.

Several consumers also commended the presence of enforcement officers conducting periodic monitoring to ensure compliance with pricing regulations, further enhancing confidence among visitors.

With Ramadan bazaars remaining a cherished tradition on the island, both traders and consumers agreed that transparency and fairness were essential in preserving trust and fostering a harmonious marketplace throughout the holy month.

-- BERNAMA