Though international travel bans may keep Malaysians away from Sweden, it will not stop the Swedish gnome from bringing festive cheer to Malaysians!
This Christmas, IPC Shopping Centre stays true to its Scandinavian roots and welcomes back its beloved Tomte to set up its holiday workshop.
Bringing the gift of giving, joy, and happiness to the community, the ‘Tomte’s Holiday Workshop’ features a weekend holiday market, shopping delights, and exclusive rewards from now until 3rd January 2021.
As this marks the 17th year of IPC serving the community, the neighbourhood shopping centre calls upon the young and the young at heart to be part of the Swedish-inspired holiday experience - with the workshop in full swing, families and friends can experience the gift of togetherness as they assist the Tomte in catching as many falling presents as possible through an interactive augmented reality screen in the concourse area.
They can also step into the heart of the workshop and be captivated by the hanging lights that represent the gift of magic!
As more than 50% of households globally spend more on local businesses during the pandemic, the Tomte has invited local vendors to set up their stalls at the Holiday Market every Saturday and Sunday, starting from 12 December until 3 January.
During this period, visitors can take a stroll through a wonderland of local artisans and speciality shops filled with unique handicrafts, trinkets, and more while they enjoy the outdoor breeze at the alfresco area located at Level G, near the main entrance.
Moreover, small business owners can use this as an avenue to nurture their gifts in art and entrepreneurial skills while growing their reach.
“This year has been a heart-warming experience as we saw many Malaysians rise to the occasion and selflessly help others in need,” said Mark Tan, Marketing Manager of IPC Shopping Centre.
Mark also said that IPC Shopping Centre introduced ‘Christmas in a Box’ in collaboration with HOPE Worldwide Malaysia to provide groceries, school supplies, and toys to 100 families in need, and subsequently, the Swedish-themed celebrations, Swede-est Christmas and Wondrous Winterland both highlighted the elements of Christmas in Sweden and created a deeper bond within families through the various activities.
Giving and receiving are significant parts of Christmas. As shoppers receive gifts for spending, IPC also empowers them to experience the joy of giving to those in need.
Due to a shortage of blood supply in the nation, IPC is raising awareness on the noble deed of saving lives through a blood donation drive. In support of University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC), The Red Gift: Blood Donation Drive will take place from 10 am to 4 pm between 29 December 2020 to 3 January 2021 at Level 1, in front of King Koil.
Families can also capture picture-perfect moments with the Sma Club Buddies and Tomte mascots as they walk around the shopping centre to hand out sweet treats to children from 5 pm to 6 pm on selected weekends and public holidays.
In conjunction with Christmas and IPC Shopping Centre’s 17th anniversary, the community shopping centre has prepared an exciting line-up of holiday presents and rewards for their visitors, too!
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s spend this Christmas by helping those in need and giving back to the community!
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
