Raya is just around the corner, and Penang’s shopping malls are already dressed up for the occasion. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect photo spot or just want to soak in the festive mood, here’s a rundown of what each mall has put together this year.
Gurney Plaza: Sinaran Raya
Gurney Plaza takes a softer, warmer approach with “Sinaran Raya,” inspired by the crescent moon and the glow of pelita lamps. The highlight is a lush tropical garden setting with giant pelita installations, the tallest standing at 35 feet, alongside firework light displays. The Alfresco area hosts two outdoor markets: Riuh Raya Market by Moondiri (6–8 March) and Greentopia Raya Cuti Cuti Market (20–29 March). On the cultural side, local artist Kimy.A brings an automated Wayang Kulit showcase, paired with live kugiran by Bunch of Pals and Silat performances. Shoppers can also redeem festive gifts including a Baby Ketupat Foldable Tote Bag, handcrafted by women from the B40 community through Komuniti Tukang Jahit (KTJ) Malaysia, with a minimum spend of RM400 from 8 March onwards.
Sunway Carnival Mall: Seindah Corak Aidilfitri
Sunway Carnival Mall draws from the artistry of songket, tenun, batik, and tekat for its “Seindah Corak Aidilfitri” theme. The space uses a circular layout to encourage wandering, with batik-inspired visuals flowing across different zones. A standout feature is “A Story in Every Motif,” a collaboration with Sunway University led by Senior Lecturers Delas Santano and Maslisa Zainuddin, offering an Augmented Reality experience that explores the heritage behind traditional Malay textile patterns. Batik artisans Tipah Jusoh and Darus Idris, a husband-and-wife duo from Kelantan, also contribute live craftsmanship to the display. Weekend performances include Boria, Wayang Kulit, traditional dance, and canvas batik painting sessions. Agrofiesta Aidilfitri runs on the Ground Floor with 22 booths selling traditional cookies, local delicacies, festive wear, and accessories until 20 March.
Straits Quay: Fitr in Patterns
Straits Quay is going bold this Raya with “Fitr in Patterns,” a decoration theme drawn from Islamic geometric art and traditional Malay design. The centrepiece is a mosque-inspired structure framed by a large patterned arch, complete with domes, minarets, crescents, and decorative lanterns. The colour palette of pink, turquoise, gold, and violet gives it a modern edge without losing its cultural roots. Running alongside the Raya display is the “One Earth One Future” series from 28 March to 26 April, mixing eco-themed workshops with the festive atmosphere.
Queensbay Mall: Gemersik Syawal
Queensbay Mall goes kampung this year. The theme “Gemersik Syawal” takes its name from the rustling sound of bamboo, and the décor reflects it: coconut trees, bamboo plants, pelita lamps, illuminated crescents, cascading fairy lights, and a traditional Malay house dressed in ketupat ornaments and batik motifs at the centre. Zapin performances and Persembahan Silat Cekak Malaysia are back through a collaboration with USM’s Dewan Budaya, with students from Sekolah Kebangsaan Seri Permai also performing on selected weekends. Brands like The Body Shop, Rituals, Pasta Port, and Texas Chicken are offering festive redemptions for CapitaPlus members.
Sunshine Central: Pesona Raya
Sunshine Central in Ayer Itam keeps things grounded with “Pesona Raya,” a campaign centred on Islamic architectural motifs featuring elegant arches, lantern elements, and intricate patterns in emerald green and gold. The installation sits at the Level 1 Hotel Atrium, creating a warm setting for shoppers to browse and take photos. What sets this campaign apart is its community focus. As part of the launch on 8 March, Sunshine Central presented SPACE by Sunshine Gift Vouchers to orphans from organisations under the Federation of Islamic Orphan Welfare Organisations of Penang, letting the children pick their own Raya attire at the mall’s in-house department store. Boost is the official partner for this year’s campaign.
1st Avenue Penang: Raya Penuh Ceria
1st Avenue Penang wraps up the list with “Raya Penuh Ceria,” which translates to “A Raya Full of Joy.” The Main Atrium goes full festive in emerald green and gold, with decorative arches, traditional motifs, illuminated lanterns, and cascading lights. Two Raya fairs run concurrently: the Village Grocer Raya Fair on the LG floor covers Ramadan essentials, snacks, beverages, and gift hampers, while Agrofiesta Aidilfitri on the Ground Floor brings traditional treats, festive clothing, artisanal crafts, and hampers. Every weekend features live performances ranging from Joget dance and Malay music to fusion gamelan and live bands. Families can also join free Art & Craft workshops including Batik Sand Art, Raya Tiles Coaster Painting, and Ketupat Charms DIY. Shopping rewards are tied to partners like Starbucks, TGV Cinemas, BlackBall, OldTown White Coffee, and Seoul Garden.
