"Pity your children" - Parents Bringing Strollers to Packed Raya Event at MITEC Spark Debate Among M’sians

With Hari Raya just a few days away, many Malaysians are taking the opportunity to do some last-minute shopping.

One location that became a major hotspot was Absolut Bazaar x Festival Gaya Raya 2026. The 66-hour non-stop shopping event took place at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC). It began on 13 March and concluded this morning at 6 AM.

While many eventgoers flocked to social media to share their shopping hauls, one issue took centre stage and sparked heated debate among Malaysians, parents bringing strollers to crowded events.

Image Credit: Koopers

In numerous posts on Threads, Malaysians pointed out the massive crowds at the event, as well as the number of baby strollers they encountered on site.

The issue sparked heated discussion online

The issue has since raised concerns among many, with some arguing that crowded environments are not suitable for small children. Others also questioned why children were brought out at such late hours solely for shopping.

“It’s the no-brain parents. Firstly, the place is already crowded, and if you bring a stroller along, you will get mad because you can’t move freely, which causes problems for you."

The user added, "Secondly, the place is not suitable for children under four years old, let alone younger children who need to be carried. Thirdly, crowded places are extremely easy spots for diseases to spread. You’re lucky if your children only end up with a common fever, but what if they get HFMD? Have some pity for your children.”

Image Credit: Threads

Another user echoed similar concerns, citing health risks and disrupted sleep schedules.

“It’s not even an appropriate time to bring babies out at those hours, and not just because of the strollers. Their sleeping schedules would be disrupted, and the place is noisy and crowded." 

"Prevention is better than cure. Diseases like HFMD, influenza, bad flu, coughs, rashes, you name it, can be easily spread. Please pity your children. It’s not just about parents wanting to enjoy Raya; the children are the ones who have to bear the consequences. Be a responsible parent!”

Image Credit: Threads

Meanwhile, some Malaysians tried to empathise with parents who brought strollers to the event, suggesting that they may not have had anyone else to look after their children.

“Why are you creating issues over such matters? Let them be if they want to bring their kids in strollers. Some parents can’t carry their children for long periods. Some want to shop but can’t find someone to care for their children. Please don’t judge. I’m a mother too, and I’m tired of having to carry my children. Do all mothers have to stay at home just because they have kids?”

Image Credit: Threads

Other parents also shared their own perspectives on bringing children along for Raya shopping despite the crowds.

A user said, “All places are crowded during festive seasons, so where are parents supposed to leave their children if they want to shop? Jalan TAR is crowded, Jakel is crowded, MITEC, uptown and downtown, everywhere is packed. The children want to shop too, so we had no choice but to bring them along. What if the clothes parents bought didn’t fit their children?"

"Are you saying only single people are allowed to shop, and parents don’t need to because some people hate strollers bumping into their feet? Once you have children, you’ll understand.”

Image Credit: Threads

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