Pilot Study: Night Market – Understanding the Experience & Socioeconomic Contributions (NEXUS)

On 12 June 2025, Khazanah Research Institute (KRI) conducted a pilot study as part of the preparatory work for its upcoming survey on night market hawkers and consumers in Kuala Lumpur. The session was attended by actual hawkers and consumers, who provided valuable feedback on the clarity, structure and flow of the questionnaire.

The pilot aimed to test the overall understanding of the survey instrument before the actual fieldwork. Participants shared helpful insights to enhance the feasibility of the fieldwork, improve respondent experience and boost the response rate.

The purpose of the NEXUS project is to better understand the challenges faced by both hawkers and consumers, and to highlight the broader socioeconomic contributions of the night market economy. Insights from this study will help inform policies that support and sustain this vital part of Malaysia’s urban informal sector.

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