PUTRAJAYA — Participation fees for Kuala Lumpur’s 2026 Deepavali Bazaar have been cut by 85 per cent to a maximum of RM400, including the deposit, as part of efforts to reduce costs for traders.

This year’s RM400 fee comprises a RM30 licence fee, RM150 service charge, RM150 site rental and RM70 deposit.

In comparison, traders had to pay RM2,626 in 2025, comprising a RM21 licence fee, RM105 service charge, RM500 site rental and RM2,000 deposit.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh said the new rate was in line with that charged for Ramadan bazaars, while the trading period would be extended to 30 days from 21 previously.

“Our focus is simple – we want to reduce costs for traders and give them a longer period to do business. The number of lots has also increased this year, consistent with our approach of reducing the cost of doing business for traders in Kuala Lumpur.

“The benefits will reach both traders and city residents. Anyone interested should apply directly to Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL). I do not want middlemen charging thousands of ringgit when we have set the fee at only RM400,” she told a press conference on the bazaar today.

Also present was Kuala Lumpur Mayor Datuk Seri Fadlun Mak Ujud.

The 2026 Deepavali Bazaar will run from Oct 9 to Nov 7 at two locations, namely at the Tun Sambanthan Complex car park and at Jalan Bunus 6 off Jalan Masjid India.

Under the Mega Deepavali concept, a total of 172 trading lots will be available across the two locations, along with bazaar trader licences and temporary entertainment and promotional licences.

Another 30 temporary entertainment and promotional licences will be available to premises along Jalan Tun Sambanthan, subject to applications from their owners.