SARATOK: People were making a beeline to the shops for a spot of last minute shopping on Tuesday with just hours remaining before the Gawai Dayak celebration begins.
Among the more sought after items were traditional clothes, personal adornments and crafts to enliven the occasion which is being celebrated in a big way after a two-year hiatus due to Covid-19 to mark the end of this year’s harvest.
A survey made by Suara Sarawak found one of the leading boutiques selling traditional accessories constantly full of customers.
According to JWL Collection boutique owner Wen Lee, the sales and customer attendance have been very encouraging.
“Ahead of the Gawai Dayak celebration, I am very satisfied,” she said, adding, however that “stocks are not enough as all items are high on demand from customers.
She revealed that she had to take a lot of stocks from traditional clothing makers, personal jewellery items and craft items from various parties up to Miri.
“I was already expecting high demand as this year many big celebrations can be celebrated with the relaxation of the Covid-19 standard operating procedures (SOPs).
“However, the supply I have is still not enough … so there are items that I have to hold first because of the limited shop space.
“I am very grateful for the good response given by the Saratok community, especially because during the two years of the pandemic, sales have been low,” said the Chinese-Iban businesswoman.
Wen Lee said one of the most expensive clothes sold in her boutique is the Baju Gagong which costs RM450.
