Singapore’s Ramadan vendors adapt to monsoon challenge

SINGAPORE (MNTV) – As Singapore’s Ramadan bazaars gear up for the festive season, vendors are bracing for an unexpected challenge—torrential rains forecasted during the third monsoon surge of the year.

Yet, rather than letting the weather dampen their sales, many stallholders are turning to digital platforms and innovative strategies to keep business thriving.

Meteorologists warn of heavy rains in the coming days—an uncommon occurrence this late in the northeast monsoon season, which typically sees surges in December and January. However, vendors across the island’s bustling night markets remain optimistic.

“With no covered linkway into the bazaar, the number of customers will definitely be fewer, but we run our business on Instagram as well, so we are still able to maintain sales,” said Syed Shamroz Khan, owner of Mr Pani Puri at the Geylang Serai Ramadan bazaar.

Since last year, he has offered online orders and home delivery, ensuring that customers can still enjoy their festive snacks despite the rain.

Other vendors are taking a similar approach. Shabeer Khan, owner of Samad & Sons, a carpet and rug retailer at the same bazaar, believes the festive spirit will still drive people to shop. “Rain or shine, people will still come,” he said, adding that management quickly responded to early complaints about leaky canvas roofs.

At Kampong Glam’s open-air bazaar, stallholders are getting creative to counter the wet weather. Johari Abdul Ghani, a staff member of RS Satay, plans to live-stream on TikTok if downpours force a temporary stall closure.

He is also prepared to walk through sheltered areas with an umbrella to take direct orders from customers.

Freelance caricature artist Faizal Bakar, who usually works in tourist hotspots like Orchard and Chinatown, has the flexibility to relocate. Armed with his drawing tools and foldable stools, he simply moves to a sheltered spot when the rain begins.

Singapore’s Ramadan bazaars, held in the lead-up to Hari Raya (Eid al-Fitr), are a major attraction for both locals and tourists. While vendors expect a dip in foot traffic due to the weather, their resilience and adaptability ensure that the festive shopping experience continues—rain or shine.