Malaysia’s stronger ringgit has not stopped Singapore shoppers from thronging markets in Johor Bahru this Lunar New Year season. Though the ringgit-Singapore dollar gap narrowed from last year, the Singapore dollar still offers strong buying power. Traders at festive markets report lively business from Singapore visitors. Kenny Ng, 29, who sells traditional Malaysian Chinese snacks at Johor Jaya, said, “Many have gotten used to shopping online, but this year we can finally see people reverting to physical purchases.” He added that Singaporeans are arriving by buses, shopping for hours before returning. Ng expects even more shoppers in the final weekend before the festival. Audrey Tan, 37, a Lunar New Year decoration seller, said, “The Singapore dollar is still stronger compared to the ringgit, making it cheaper for Singaporeans to shop here.” She also noticed more visitors from China. Stephanie Hee, 34, a jewellery seller, noted that a smaller crowd this year is likely unrelated to currency shifts, as Christmas crowds were good despite a stronger ringgit. The South Johor Petty and Mobile Traders Association’s chairman, Yow Boon Choon, confirmed, “The currency exchange has not affected us so far, and I believe it will remain that way throughout the festive period.” Last week, the exchange rate was around 3.10 to 3.13 ringgit per Singapore dollar, down from about 3.30 last year.