Syazwani Hj Rosli

The COVID-19 outbreak is presenting its share of challenges for tailoring businesses across the country.

Normally, the months leading up to Hari Raya would be a busy season for them, but in the current climate, customers are not coming in to access their services.

An employee at a men’s tailor shop in Kampong Serusop said, “We haven’t received any new Raya orders since the first case of COVID-19 was reported in Brunei.”

Gesturing at a half-empty rack with a few sets of Baju Cara Melayu, he continued, “We managed to complete these orders that came in before the outbreak, but the customers have yet to collect or pay for them. Even our regular clients have not made any arrangements for festive clothing.

“All of us (employees) are worried. Our work is commission-based, so without any tailoring orders, we will have no income. As of now, we are open to receiving new customers.”

Marhaton, a seamstress employed at a dressmaking shop in Kampong Anggerek Desa, said, “This year, our Raya orders are 25 per cent less than that of the previous years. Usually, at this time of the year, we are fully booked, but now, we are trying to attract customers.

“This is devastating for us, and if it continues for much longer, then this shop might have to close down.”