As the Lunar New Year (LNY) approaches, SMOU members are flocking across the border to indulge in retail therapy, stock up on goodies, and immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere.

A one-day LNY shopping trip to Johor Bahru, organised by SMOU on 27 Jan 2024, saw a turnout of 82 members. The trip started as early as 6.30am, when SMOU members assembled to depart by coach via the Tuas second link.

Having cleared the customs checkpoint, the first stop was for breakfast at the Heng Park coffeeshop. There, members indulged in local cuisine to fuel up for a productive day of shopping.  

Then, it was off to the Tong Garden Factory outlet for premium nuts, seeds, snacks, and dried fruits; and Shang Wan Hong for dried seafood products.

Time passes by fast when there’s lots to shop. With their bags of purchases from the two outlets, the entourage was whisked to Makan Kitchen at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel JB for a buffet lunch. Members feasted on Malaysia’s finest cuisine and had the opportunity to catch up with fellow visitors.

The fare-bulous lunch charged up members’ energy for more afternoon shopping at Yong Sheng Confectionery and Mr Sotong. At Yong Sheng Confectionery, members got all excited with the festive-themed cookies and pastries, while there were never-ending temptations to buy savoury seafood-based crackers and chips at Mr Sotong.

To bring the shopping experience to a new high, SMOU members were brought to Mid Valley Southkey, one of the latest shopping malls.

The whole-day shopping trip in JB clearly accomplished the members’ mission of making LNY festive purchases. Every member had a great experience to share and remember among the SMOU family.