Deepavali left in the shadows? Malls criticised for emphasising Halloween over Festival of Lights

SHAH ALAM – With Deepavali around the corner, a spirited debate has emerged online over the balance between cultural decorations in shopping malls, especially in light of Halloween-themed displays taking centre stage.

Deepavali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most important cultural celebrations for Malaysian Hindus, drawing people together in vibrant festivities.

However, some social media users have voiced disappointment, noting that in certain shopping malls, Halloween decorations have overshadowed Deepavali, raising questions about cultural respect and business priorities.

Malaysia Shopping Malls Association president Phang Sau Lian said Deepavali remains a central celebration for Malaysians and most malls have indeed put up festive decorations to mark the occasion.

"Deepavali still remains a key cultural highlight for all Malaysian shoppers, whereas Halloween is a secondary event in comparison.

“Today, malls are places for beyond shopping, it’s a place for everyone to celebrate many occasions,” he said when contacted.

Phang emphasised that the decorations were not just about honouring festivities but also about creating business opportunities, drawing foot traffic and enhancing the mall experience for visitors.

Netizens weigh in, divided views on social media

As discussions continued, social media platforms became hotspots for Malaysians to voice their perspectives, revealing a clear divide in public opinion over the mall decorations.

On X (formerly Twitter), user @AlawiyahYussof expressed frustration, stating “I don't know why this Halloween is given such a big attention. It's not our people's culture or a festival. Malaysians are celebrating Deepavali next week. Instead of putting up suitable decorations for the festival, these people put up such decorations.”

This sentiment was echoed by other users, who expressed a desire for more visible Deepavali decorations in the spirit of cultural respect.

However, others took a different stance, highlighting the business aspect. @emjay039 argued, "When you have done research on customer behaviour, segmentise your market target, decoration is part of the strategies to attract their presence. It has nothing to do with culture, festivals and what not. It's better than premises who did nothing to market their places.”

Similarly, @TuakinChio chimed in, suggesting the displays are simply a tactic to appeal to younger audiences and increase foot traffic: "It's just business. Should we get all critical and emotional about that?"

Blending of festivities, concern or celebration?

Some users also raised concerns about a lack of balance, with TikTok user @ramnesanperumal1 reminding everyone of the importance of respect for all cultural celebrations in Malaysia, saying, "Let’s hope we appreciate and respect all communities in Malaysia... and celebrate the uniqueness of our nation."

Meanwhile, others voiced a preference for keeping decorations distinct, like TikTok user @Thagomizered, who said, "Personally, I'm fine with it as long as they keep them separated. Just don’t do some weird fusion thing."

On Facebook, the comments were equally diverse, @FarahAtiqah11 highlighted her wish for a more traditional Deepavali décor stating "Why are there more Halloween decorations than Deepavali? Deepavali is way more meaningful!"

Balancing business and cultural sensitivity

While some argue that decorations were merely a business decision, others view the arrangement as a symbol of cultural acknowledgement.

Phang’s emphasis on malls as places for everyone to celebrate diverse occasions hints at a broader purpose, yet the public remains split on what they feel should be prioritised.

As Malaysia continues to evolve as a multicultural nation, the debates surrounding festival decorations reflect a growing conversation on cultural representation.

For now, the Kuala Lumpur shopping malls find themselves at the centre of a lively discussion on how to balance commercial interests with the nation’s rich cultural diversity.