KUCHING: Malaysians are wasting no time gearing up for Raya 2025, with most shoppers locking in their festive buys months in advance.
According to Shopee Malaysia’s Raya 2025 Buyer Trends Study, 98 per cent of shoppers kicked off their festive purchases as early as by the fourth quarter of 2024.
The study highlights a growing preference for early planning, as buyers take advantage of year-end sales and promotions to maximise savings.
Meanwhile, the remaining two per cent make last-minute purchases, typically for gifts, fresh festive essentials, or unexpected needs right before the celebrations.
Conducted among 1,500 Shopee users, the study also reveals a strong budget-conscious mindset.
Seven in ten (70 per cent) shoppers keep their Raya expenses under RM500, with half of them setting a budget between RM300 and RM500.
“These higher-spending shoppers tend to prioritise bulk purchases for family gatherings, festive gifting and home upgrades, suggesting that spending habits are influenced by family size, hosting responsibilities, and cultural traditions,” the report stated.
Beyond budgeting strategies, trust in online shopping platforms plays a crucial role in purchasing decisions.
When asked, ‘Which feature gives you the most confidence when shopping online for Raya?’ 75 per cent of respondents pointed to Shopee’s secure shopping ecosystem, citing flexible payment options, Shopee Guarantee and Shopee Mall as key factors influencing their trust.
Meanwhile, the remaining 25 per cent emphasised product variety, convenience and community-driven insights, often relying on seller ratings, peer recommendations and Shopee’s affiliate marketing programs to guide their purchases.
Commenting on the matter, Shopee Malaysia Marketing and Business Intelligence Head Tan Ming Kit noted that Malaysians are shopping smarter for Raya, planning earlier and maximising value through promotions, cashback and flexible payment options.
“This shift underscores growing trust in Shopee’s secure and rewarding shopping experience, where consumers prioritise not just affordability, but also convenience, buyer protection, and product authenticity.
“As Raya 2025 approaches, we remain committed to helping shoppers save more, shop confidently, and enjoy a seamless festive shopping journey,” he said.
In light of this, the study also highlights a strong buyer preference for interactive, real-time content when discovering Shopee’s Raya deals, with a majority relying on affiliate recommendations.
Notably, it stated that four in five Malaysians turn to their Shopee Live and Shopee Video content, drawn to the ability to see products in action, access exclusive deals, and get instant answers to their questions.
This shift indicates that buyers value authenticity, social proof, and real-time engagement over static product listings, making live commerce a preferred way to secure the best deals during peak shopping seasons like Raya.
The study further reveals that 70 per cent of Raya shoppers prioritise fashion and beauty products, reinforcing the cultural significance of dressing up and self-care during the festive period.
This category includes traditional attire, modest wear, footwear, accessories, makeup and skincare essentials.
“Beyond fashion, 20 per cent of shoppers prioritise household items, festive food, and gift hampers, reflecting preparations for hosting family and friends as well as cultural gifting traditions.
“The remaining 10 per cent focus on travel essentials, gadgets, and automotive products, indicating that a segment of shoppers are gearing up for their ‘balik kampung’ journeys or family holidays,” the study added.
As Malaysians adopt earlier, more strategic and value-driven shopping habits, the study pointed out the importance of secure and seamless e-commerce experiences.
“Reliable sellers, flexible payment options, and platform-wide savings play a key role in helping consumers make informed purchases while maximising value.
“As digital retail continues to evolve, platforms like Shopee are shaping a more convenient and trusted shopping environment, ensuring Malaysians can prepare for Raya 2025 with confidence.”
