Shopping for a bargain: Tourists visiting a night market in Batu Ferringhi, Penang. — LIM BENG TATT/The Star
GEORGE TOWN: While food and beverage vendors at night markets here are drawing large crowds, those selling non-food items are struggling to capture the same level of attention and sales.
Macallum Street Night Market organiser Chai Soon Long said the crowds are eager to indulge in a wide variety of tasty snacks and dishes that are unique to the street food culture here.
Macallum Street Night Market organiser Chai Soon LongBesides locals, he said there is also a growing influx of foreign visitors who are keen to explore the vibrant street food scene here.
“About 20% of the crowds are foreigners, mostly from China and Europe.
“Thanks to travel content creators who have shared their experiences on social media, these visitors have discovered the lively atmosphere of the night market and now know exactly how to find it,” he said.
“The night market here is conveniently located near the heart of town, making it an easy and accessible stop for those exploring the area.”
Chai said another fascinating trend is how tourists tend to gravitate towards food stalls with long queues.
“It’s as if they view the queue as a signal of quality, a stamp of approval that tells them the food must be worth waiting for.”
The Macallum Street Night Market features 167 stalls, including about 120 food and beverage vendors offering a wide range of local and international delicacies.
Located at Lintang Macallum 1, the market is open every Monday from 4pm to 10.30pm.
Chai said the stall rental prices vary, with vendors offering food and beverages paying higher fees, ranging from RM25 to RM35.
He added that those selling non-food items pay a more modest rental fee, ranging between RM8 and RM12.
On the struggles faced by vendors selling non-food items such as clothing, mobile accessories, stationery and toys, Chai acknowledged the inevitable challenge.
He said it was tough for these vendors to thrive at night markets, especially with the intense competition from online retailers.
Echoing his views was Taman Kheng Tian Night Market chairman Tan Thean Keng, who said that while night markets offer a unique, social shopping experience, many consumers were still more inclined to shop online.
“In today’s digital age, consumers have easy access to a vast array of products at their fingertips, often with the convenience of home delivery and competitive pricing.
“On our part, we are doing everything we can to support these vendors by keeping the stall rental fees as low as possible.
“These vendors are like family to us, and their presence is vital to the heart and soul of the night market.
“It’s not just about food but about creating a diverse, vibrant atmosphere where people can experience a wide range of products and enjoy the full spectrum of what Penang’s night markets have to offer,” Tan said.
The Taman Kheng Tian Night Market in Jelutong, featuring about 200 stalls, is open from 4pm to 10.30pm every Friday.
