Layang-layang: The Johor State Election Season is proving to be more than just a democratic exercise, as it has become an unexpected economic boost for petty traders and hawkers in the Layang-Layang and Simpang Renggam areas.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, stall operator Noorma Zafmeeden, 70, from Felda Layang-Layang, has experienced a surge in customers during the campaign period, exceeding all expectations. Her stall, which serves roti canai and nasi lemak, typically generates less than RM400 in morning sales, but business has significantly increased since the start of the election campaign. "On normal days, our income is average, but when election season comes, there is definitely a substantial increase in earnings," she mentioned.

Noorma, alongside her husband Bahari Madiran, 76, has lived in the Felda settlement since 1987. They continue their routine of preparing popular Malaysian breakfast dishes from dawn and serve various fried dishes in the evening. Bahari remarked that their warung has become a meeting point that reflects unity, with customers from different races and religions gathering in a warm atmosphere. The influx of visitors has provided him opportunities to interact with people and campaign workers from various parts of the country.

In Simpang Renggam, the economic boost is also being felt by 'nasi campur' trader Ahmad Ridzuan Awang, 45, whose sales have doubled during the campaign period. He noted, "Usually, dozens of dishes only sell out by evening, but since the state election campaign started, by as early as 1.30 pm our trays are already empty due to bulk orders from various parties."

Ahmad Ridzuan highlighted that the influx of 'political tourists' has not only benefited food operators but has also created a positive spillover effect for local suppliers and businesses in the surrounding area. The Johor state election is seeing 172 candidates contesting 56 seats, with polling day scheduled for July 11 and early voting on July 7.