Malaysians capitalising on stronger ringgit to buy gadgets
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A worker adjusting a sales sign at an electronics shop in Penang's Komtar mall.
PHOTO: THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
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GEORGE TOWN, Penang – With the ringgit on an upward trend, upgrading electronic gadgets seems to be on everyone’s minds in Malaysia now.
A store manager in Penang’s Komtar mall, Mr Robinson Kuek, said business has been booming, with people capitalising on the rising ringgit to buy electronic gadgets.
He said high-end computers and laptops were selling quite well as their prices had dropped by a few thousand ringgit.
“The high-end computers used to fetch around RM10,000 (S$3,050) but now, the price has dropped quite a lot.
“Mobile phones, especially the American brands, are much cheaper as well,” he added.
“Many customers have come to get their hands on the newer models.”
Mr Kuek said if one could afford to change gadgets or buy new ones, now would be a good time to do so.
“There is an impact on the exchange rate as most IT products are based on the US dollar,” he added.
At another information technology store, sales manager Andrew Lim said business has improved from the past few months.
“Some are worried that the currency will change again, so they want to buy their favourite gadgets now,” he said.
“We have seen a 30 per cent increase in sales this week, especially for tablets and laptops.”
Ms B. Premala, 67, said she had been planning to buy a new tablet earlier in 2024 but found the prices too high.
“I’m glad I waited as I can now save hundreds of ringgit,” she said.
“The offers are great and I am glad our currency is doing better.” THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
