New attractions at charity bazaar

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THE annual Japan Charity Fiesta and Bazaar is back, and this year, visitors can look forward to two new activities, namely Japanese toy making and golf-putting.

The 37th charity bazaar will be held from 11am to 3pm on Nov 8 at the Grand-Ballroom on the second floor of Hotel Nikko Kuala Lumpur in Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur.

Charity bazaar organising committee vice-president Chieko Kiyofuji, who is also the Japanese Women’s Association president, said more than 3,500 shoppers turned up for the bazaar last year.

A total of 30 charities will benefit from the charity bazaar. Last year, the total donation was about RM173,000.

Lovingly handmade: A yukata (summer kimono) and a variety of handicraft made by Japan Club members that will be sold at the charity bazaar.

“We understand that the present economic situation is hard on every one. Nevertheless, we are organising this charity bazaar with a simple and pure mind, hoping that the good faith of charity will bring positive vibes to every one, especially the needy members of society.

“We are hoping for the same volume of shoppers, or even more, because charity needs good people to come to enhance the good faith,” she said.

Among the items that will be sold are assorted handicraft made by Japan Club members, homemade Japanese food and pastries, Japanese-style decorative items and multipurpose Japanese-style gift boxes, with prices ranging from RM1 to RM1,000.

Visitors will also be able to get some good bargains at the bazaar as selected electrical appliances and products by Japanese manufacturers will be sold at 20% to 50% cheaper than the market price.

Food vouchers from hotels and restaurants will be sold at a discounted price of 30% to 40% less.

At the Ennichi corner, visitors will be able to try their hand at traditional Japanese games like wanage (throwing hoops) and yoyo-fishing.

According to Japanese Women’s Association secretary Sharon Yap, there will be more than 60 booths and there are some still available for those who would like to take part in the bazaar.

Bags in all shapes and sizes: Bags and other handicraft will also be available.

“The booths cost between RM400 and RM500 each and the proceeds will go to charity.

“Some companies have also donated cash and kind, and the items will be sold at the charity bazaar,” she said.

Aside from the commercial participants, there will be 14 local social welfare organisations selling their wares at the bazaar. These include Asrama Cahaya IJ Convent Bukit Nanas, Shuang Fu, and the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA).

Tickets are priced at RM12 before the event and will be sold at RM15 on the day of the event.