Auspicious markers: Lim showing off some of the products that his company sells at its printing plant in George Town, Penang. — ZHAFARAN NASIB /The Star
GEORGE TOWN: Traditional calendars and diaries continue to remain bestsellers despite the popularity and convenience of digital organisers.
Several printing operators have seen at least a 10% increase in sales albeit a lower profit due to the weakening ringgit.
Printing manufacturer Lim Chin Leng said with the new year approaching, most companies still prefer to give their clients diary planners and physical calendars as corporate gifts.
He said the horse racing calendar was the most popular among companies with a tight budget as the cost of printing was lower compared to higher quality calendars.
“Calendars and diaries are still in demand as it has been a tradition for the Asian community, especially the Chinese, to use them in office or at home.
“With a physical calendar, we know which are the auspicious dates to go on holiday or hold company events.
“It’s the same for diaries. Many people still opt for diaries, instead of using electronic gadgets like tablets or smartphones, to write important notes during meetings,” he added.
Lim said the traditional Chinese calendar also included the Islamic calendar, adding that they were suitable for public use in their daily business affairs.
“There is also a QR code for physical calendars, where users can scan and read about the vital information of a particular day.
“For calendars, we also print words of wisdom and inspiring quotes.
“We can also custom-make them by printing company logos and specific designs listed out by our clients for the diaries and calendars,” he said, adding that red packets were also in demand.
Feng shui master Mak Foo Wengg said wall calendars would always be in demand as they feature information on Chinese astrology.
Besides the five elements – (metal, water, wood, fire and earth), Mak said the calendar also showed the 12 “double hours” (Shi Er Shi Zhen), each with its own symbol and each also corresponding to one of the 12 zodiac animals.
“For the Chinese community, this calendar provides the perfect guidance in securing favourable dates and times of the day for weddings, holidays, delivery of babies, funeral procession, family events, moving house or opening of new shop.
“Some people would even check out the best date and time for a haircut.
“It also shows the ‘disastrous’ dates and which activities should be avoided.
“It also informs which directions or regions that are best for one to increase their wealth on that particular day,” he added.
