Mohamad Ikmal Aliff Md Mustafa and his team were kept busy on the final day of ‘Karnival Segalanya Felda’.
The founder of Saukass, a local shoe company, was elated that his shoes were being snapped up like hot cakes.
“Our best seller is Budi, a tribute to Felda,” said Ikmal, pointing to a white pair of sneakers with orange stripes, colours associated with Malaysia’s Federal Land Development Authority (Felda).
“We’ve only produced 1,000 pairs of Budi. Every sneaker comes with a serial number, so it’s special that way.”
What’s even more special is that Budi, which means kindness, was an instant hit, with shoppers flocking Ikmal’s booth throughout the day. And the 30-year-old owed it to the organiser of the three-day carnival that started on July 12, held at the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Serdang (MAEPS) in Selangor.
“We came here with the aim of creating brand awareness. But we’ve enjoyed good sales over the past three days. So it’s been a good outing for us,” said Ikmal.
Ikmal started Saukass, trading at a local night market, nine years ago. His brand has grown since. Today, it has close to 500,000 followers and 3.4 million likes on TikTok. Yet, Ikmal still felt it was important to meet people so that they could take a closer look at his products.
“I must extend my gratitude to Felda for organising this carnival. It’s satisfying to see people appreciating our shoes. We hope that people will continue supporting local brands.”
Hafiy Huzali of D’ Era Pouch Industries, said sales were good throughout the carnival. His booth, in Hall A, sold ready-to-eat meals such as Sardines in Tomato Sauce.
“So far, we have sold around 50 boxes. Each box has about 24 packets. So it’s been good,” said Hafiy, 27.
“People know of our products, they’ve seen them at local hypermarkets and malls. We’re happy that they are still buying the products from us, here.”
A good mix of traders were involved in the event – from those selling ice cream and sweets, to continental vehicles. The carnival, held in conjunction with the annual Hari Peneroka (Settlers’ Day) had something for everyone. Those who thronged the halls were Felda settlers from various settlements nationwide, and members of the public who were there to enjoy the weekend.
“Those who didn’t know us, now know us. This avenue made it possible, and that’s good for the brand,” said Hafiy.
