A business group in Penang has backed the state government’s restriction on traders from out of state selling Indian-themed goods outside of designated months, calling it a “fair and balanced approach” that helps local traders stay afloat.
The Penang branch of the Malaysian Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry said the move was not a total ban as it still allowed traders from other states to participate in the fairs during off-peak months.
“This reflects a fair and balanced approach, one that safeguards the interests of local entrepreneurs while still welcoming outside traders during appropriate windows,” said the chamber’s president S Parthiban in a statement.
Parthiban said many Indian traders in Penang depended on Deepavali sales to sustain themselves for the rest of the year.
“These traders deserve the opportunity to benefit meaningfully during the festive season,” said Parthiban.
Parthiban also said the policy helped prevent markets from being flooded with outside goods, while allowing for diversity and healthy competition and ensuring the sustainability of Penang-based businesses.
Under the policy, non-Penang traders can apply to set up Indian-themed stalls from April to June, chief minister Chow Kon Yeow said yesterday.
Chow said the rule, which has been in place for more than five years, was introduced after appeals from the Penang Indian Chamber of Commerce.
He said local traders had complained that Deepavali sales were being undermined by cheaper foreign goods sold at Indian pop-up fairs, often operated by non-residents.
Sales outside of these windows have drawn scrutiny and enforcement measures, including a recent case at a mall in Seberang Perai that sparked online debate.