Muar: Thousands of visitors thronged Dataran Tanjung Emas here for the three-day event held in conjunction with the launch of the National Month and Fly the Jalur Gemilang 2025 campaign, creating a ripple effect of economic benefits for the local community.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the national-level programme held over the weekend delivered a direct economic boost to homestay operators, food vendors, and small traders, many of whom saw demand surge and sales triple compared to regular days.

Homestay operator Nur Athirah Badlishah, 31, said all her units had been fully booked a month before the programme due to strong demand from guests traveling from outside Muar. She noted that she received numerous calls inquiring about available homestays, but hers were already occupied. To accommodate the influx of visitors, she recommended other homestays operated by friends.

Meanwhile, 54-year-old nasi campur seller Maimon Abdullah reported that her sales had almost tripled following a sudden surge in customers since the event began. She mentioned that all her dishes were sold out before 3 pm the previous day, prompting her to double her cooking efforts to meet the increased demand. Some of her customers traveled from Singapore to attend the event.

Local fruit trader Lim Kok Wah, 49, extended his business hours until late at night to keep up with the overwhelming demand. He observed a 40 percent increase in sales that morning compared to a typical day and decided to keep his stall open until 11 pm for the duration of the event.

The programme featured various activities, including cultural performances, a local product carnival, and patriotic-themed events, which sparked a sense of nationalism among attendees. The launch ceremony is set to be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim tomorrow.