| Azlan Othman & Achong Tanjong |
BRUNEIANS taking advantage of their strong currency have been making a beeline to cross the border to Miri and Kota Kinabalu over the past weeks causing massive congestions.
With BND1 hovering around RM3 to RM3.02, many border hoppers hunt for bargains or take the opportunity for a year-end family getaway.
A retired public servant said he had been queuing at the Kuala Lurah-Tedungan border checkpoints as early as 5am and only reached the Pandaruan-Ujung Jalan border checkpoint at around 9am.
“Bruneians were seen buying school stationeries for the new school term as well as to feast on sumptuous food across the border,” he said.
Another local Haji Ahmad Kilai observed that people started driving their vehicles towards the Sungai Tujoh Control Post as early as 5.30am with queues stretching as far as 6km.
“We don’t mind travelling a long way to Sabah because we wanted to enjoy our holiday with family members there. We will be sharing an apartment for three nights and celebrating the New Year in Kota Kinabalu. It is more happening over there with many interesting activities,” said 44-year-old Morshidi of Temburong.
A frequent traveller said, “It is common to see Bruneians shopping with multiple trolleys in areas like the New World Mart in Miri especially for their groceries and other daily needs. But in the meantime, they should also spend prudently.”
A survey by the Weekend Bulletin at several restaurants in Jalan Gadong and Jerudong on Thursday night, however, showed a steady flow of customers especially families for dining.
At a seafood restaurant in Jerudong, tables were filled up for family dinners or birthday celebrations.
Meanwhile, the country is holding the ‘Brunei Salebration’ from December 1, 2018 to February 13 next year to include the Chinese New Year celebration.
However, businesses have the option to conduct their sales activity for a shorter period, from December 1, 2018 to January 31, 2019.
The event is part of the government’s efforts to promote Brunei as a shopping destination and contribute towards local economy.
The 75-day-long Brunei Salebration offers attractive prices to encourage members of the public to shop locally.
Participating stores offer as low as 20 per cent discount on at least 50 per cent of their goods.
The event also complements the Brunei December Festival, a Brunei Tourism Board initiative which offers over 40 events in several festival themes through collaborations with various organisations showcasing activities for locals and tourists.