By Maryam Spahic
Ever seen congested roads filled with stretches of colourful umbrellas during the evening? There is most likely a pasar malam going on there. Pasar malam is a Malay word that literally means “night market.” As the name suggests, it is basically a street market that opens in the evening until late night.
Night markets may be found all over Malaysia, operated mainly nearby residential areas. It is open only on certain days a week with opening hours varying from one market to another. It may be crowded most of the time, but look past that and you may see some advantages of night markets, especially for students.
Firstly, let’s talk about the variety of foodstuffs sold which is most likely one of the main reasons students (or anyone for that matter) go to night markets. Whether you feel like having something heavy like rice and chicken or some snacks like puff pastries, all can be found in night markets at very affordable prices. True, cheap decent foods are available throughout the campus as well but a little twist for the tastebud is good once in a while.
Apart from food, a lot of other things can be found in night markets too, such as fruits, vegetables and even clothes and bags all at reasonable prices. So, you do not have to wait for the bus or a cab to leave campus to purchase your basic necessities. You can grab them all within walking distance around the campus. Save time, money and effort.
Sometimes, after sitting for long hours cramming the brain with information and knowledge in classrooms, a nice walk with friends is just what you need. The distance to the night market may vary from one student to another depending on their location within the campus but walking is a good exercise and is more fun for most when it is done in group. Malls and movies repeatedly may eventually cause boredom, hence, walking with a group of friends to get cheap, delicious food and basic necessities after a long day of classes sounds like a wonderful evening hangout.
A stroll through the night market is sometimes just the thing you need. Cheap dinner, fruit/veggie stock for the week and even clothes all can be bought just nearby. A night market can be found on Wednesdays just outside the campus, nearby Gate 2. There is also a special night market called ‘Evening Souq’ next Friday (18 September 2015) at Convest Hill.
There are also occasional night markets within the campus throughout the semester that you would not want to miss.***
Photo of Aznanie