The same issue is currently affecting Malakat Mall, the once-viral shopping centre at the center of the Buy Muslim First campaign. The BMF campaign was so massive at the time and Malakat Mall was at the forefront of the movement - until the pandemic hits.
Two years after its unveiling, Malakat Mall faces the tough reality of survival in the post-pandemic economy. Tik Toker Aqlan Rosli visited the mall and filmed the current state of Malakat and its surroundings.
The Tik Toker showed his viewers Malakat’s empty walkways and closed shops despite its unique interior. However, Aqlan genuinely believes that Malakat Mall has all it takes to grow and succeed as a brand.
@aqlanrosli_ Apa punca sebenarnya Malakat Mall ni takde org? #fyp #tiktokmalaysia ♬ original sound - Aqlan
Surprisingly, the owner of Malakat Mall reached out to Aqlan on his comment section, claiming that the mall entertained 6,000 visitors during the MCO. He also reaffirms that they’re currently rebuilding the brand.
Many of the video commenters encouraged the Malakat Mall management to allow more well-known brands into the mall in order to attract customers.
With retail now moving their focus to online sales, the future of such establishments hang in the balance, especially newer ones like Malakat.
Do you have any suggestions in improving malls like Malakat? Send us your suggestions at [email protected]
Photos from Malakat Tribune