Staggering. Even with all the food and grocery price increases, people still spent more in 2006 than in 2007.

Shoppers (Malaysians + tourists) spent almost RM67.1 billion in 2007, a 12.8% increase from the year before. It was the fastest growth since 1991.

Tourists accounted for 10-12% of the total.

For 2008, the forecast is even more: RM71.8 billion.

Most of purchases went to:
-”specialty subsectors”, eg toys, fitness equipment and optical products
- fashion and fashion accessories.

Source
New Straits Times, 14th May 2008