Supporting local brands and establishments can start way before you embark on your travels; it can begin as early as when you’re packing your suitcases
The cry to support local businesses has never been stronger or more crucial in this pandemic. Just last month, we launched our #goingplacesagain campaign which spotlights small, tourism-reliant businesses across Malaysia, in the hopes of encouraging Malaysians to support these establishments as they travel across the country. But the pledge to #supportlocal can begin even way before you set foot on the plane; it can start as early as when you’re packing your suitcases.
#Packlocal: a fresh way to travel
As its name suggests, the trend is all about choosing to pack your suitcase with items from homegrown brands. The standard packing rules still apply: you’ll need the right travel bag, toiletries, sun protection, weather-appropriate clothing pieces, the list goes on. But instead of hitting the usual retail chains armed with your shopping and packing checklist, consider buying them from local brands instead.
Equally matched in quality and style, digitally savvy, and oft for a good cause, there are plenty of emerging local brands that are giving the big names a run for their money. Here are a few reasons to convince you to pack local before your next vacation:
1. You can easily shop them online
Packing local is a lot easier than you’d think. With a plethora of cool homegrown labels ranging from travel accessories and fashion pieces to skincare, you’re spoiled for choice of options. Far from the hole-in-the-wall, traditional mom-and-pop shops, many local businesses have a strong social presence, even quickly shifting to digital in the past few years. You can easily shop many of them online, all without the drawn-out and often costly affair that is international shipping.
2. You minimise on carbon footprint
Plenty of local brands in Malaysia are made and sourced locally, which helps reduce the carbon footprint on your purchases. A guilt-free, eco-conscious purchase, what’s not to love?
3. You’re supporting local artisans working with the brand
Unfortunately, heritage crafts like weaving are a dying craft in Malaysia, which means many artisans are often vulnerable to unemployment. A good number of homegrown labels are addressing this by engaging these skilled artists from local communities and paying them a fair wage. Buying from these brands is not just a great way to travel in style, but also help these local businesses and groups stay afloat in this trying climate.
4. These unique, one-of-a-kind pieces make for a great vacation conversation starter
Many local brands pay nods to Malaysian culture and heritage in their designs, which often result in unique, standout pieces, whether that’s a batik kaftan or a handwoven bag you can tote around on vacation. Not only are they made for the Malaysian climate in mind, but these one-of-a-kind pieces are also a great conversation starter when you’re meeting new people on your vacation. And they’re a great way to introduce others to the cool brands we have at home!
To inspire your #packlocal travel checklist, discover these homegrown brands in Malaysia you must know:
Shop local: 4 fashion and accessory brands in Malaysia that should be on your radar
Shop local: 5 Malaysian beauty brands you’ll love
Shop local: 4 Malaysian wellness brands you need to know
With thanks to our partners MiTime, Ischia, The Bare Skin, La’derm, Reyoung Beaute, Zcova, MASA Horlogerie Kuala Lumpur, Tailored Jewel, Beaute Method Group, Empro, 31MM, Yinee Beauty Wellness and Da Vinci Medical
