Ramazan bazaars go digital in Southeast Asia amid pandemic

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Ramazan is traditionally a lucrative time for food vendors in Muslim-majority countries, with more people going out for late-night meals after breaking their fast at sunset. But the global virus outbreak, with more than three million people infected, has led to widespread curbs.

The movement curbs have forced thousands of street hawkers and vendors to embrace digital platforms, mirroring a shift in neighbouring Indonesia, where roadside businesses enjoy a sizeable online presence.

An online Ramazan bazaar trader wraps "Popiah" spring rolls at his home, during the movement control order due to the coronavirus outbreak, in Sungai Buloh, Malaysia. — Reuters
An online Ramazan bazaar trader wraps "Popiah" spring rolls at his home, during the movement control order due to the coronavirus outbreak, in Sungai Buloh, Malaysia. — Reuters

In Malaysia, several companies have developed e-bazaar platforms to help Ramazan traders partner with delivery companies and reach more customers online.

Virtual bazaars have also been set up in Singapore, which cancelled Ramazan markets last month.

Read the full Reuters story here.

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