Kuala lumpur: The spirit of Christmas on Dec 25 is becoming increasingly evident as Christians take advantage of the weekend to make preparations and shop for essential festive items such as decorations, new clothes and presents. Major shopping malls are also filled with colourful decorations, adding to the festive atmosphere.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, in the capital, a survey found that the iconic Suria KLCC shopping mall continues to be a focal point for both local and foreign visitors, not only for shopping but also for capturing memorable photographs against the various colourful decorations and giant Christmas trees that adorn the space.

A tourist from the United Kingdom, Liam Harrison, 34, said this is his first time celebrating Christmas in Malaysia and described the pre-celebration festivities as similar to those in his home country. Another tourist, Sarah Bannet, 38, from Australia, said she was impressed by the lively Christmas preparations in Malaysia.

In Penang, a survey in a shopping centre in Bandar Sunway Seberang Jaya found the atmosphere to be lively, with most premises offering special promotions and setting up stalls selling personal ornaments, games, and pastries. To enliven the celebration, the management took the initiative to create a special space decorated with colourful ornaments resembling a fantasy world to attract visitors, especially children, to play and take commemorative photographs.

Meanwhile, in Sarawak, the same situation was also felt with shopping malls in Kuching filled with people making preparations, especially with the year-end promotional offers. Sarawak Energy officer Ollingga Lowance, 41, who was at the Kuching Sentral shopping mall, said early preparations made it easier to plan the celebration with family, as well as save time and reduce the stress leading up to the festive day.

For private sector employee, Suzzy Ellyana Jeffery, 31, the year-end promotions are her main draw for shopping, as the discounts offered help her get festive essentials at affordable prices. In Sabah, in conjunction with Christmas this year, civil servant Marryan Razan, 40, said she is making simple preparations and has only bought one new outfit.

Meanwhile, the Sabah government will be organising the state-level Christmas Day celebration with the theme "Hope For Peace In Love" on Dec 16 at Padang Merdeka, from 6.50 pm to 10 pm.