A social media post by user “Puan Sri H” has stirred a conversation on diversity and cultural sensitivity after she criticised the presence of Halloween displays in Malaysian shopping malls during the Deepavali season. Although she did not name any specific malls, "Puan Sri H" questioned why some malls chose to put up Halloween decorations so close to Deepavali.

“Seriously, why are malls and public places in Malaysia having Halloween decorations? Since when was it our culture?” she wrote. “Hello, it’s Deepavali season, not Halloween. Have some respect for our fellow Malaysians.” Her post has since been shared by over 4,500 people, gaining both support and opposing views.

A check by the New Straits Times found that while some malls had both Deepavali and Halloween decorations, most featured Deepavali decorations only. For example, a mall in Bukit Bintang displayed Halloween decor at its entrance, while Deepavali decorations adorned other sections. Another mall in Kuala Lumpur was fully decorated for Deepavali.

Many social media users agreed with “Puan Sri H,” expressing concerns over Halloween's presence in Malaysian public spaces. “What’s even worse is that even the promoters are wearing Halloween costumes,” one user commented, while another shared, “Even my child is asking, ‘Do we celebrate Halloween?’”

Some users, however, disagreed, suggesting that the post did not reflect all Malaysians' views. One commenter shared, “I have fond memories of celebrating Halloween as a child. I also cherish the celebrations of Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, and Deepavali alongside my mixed-race friends. It’s inaccurate to say that malls aren’t celebrating Deepavali—many have already started with beautiful displays.”

Malaysia Shopping Malls Association President Phang Sau Lian noted that the majority of malls have prioritized Deepavali decorations. “Deepavali remains a key cultural highlight for Malaysian shoppers, while Halloween is a secondary event by comparison,” she said.

Phang added that shopping malls aim to be inclusive, celebrating a variety of cultural events to create a vibrant environment. “All kinds of celebrations drive foot traffic, create business opportunities, and enhance the mall experience,” she explained, highlighting that malls are spaces for Malaysians to enjoy both traditional and modern festivities.

Source / Image Credit : NST, Mall of Egypt, Tatler Asia