KUALA LUMPUR: The “hijab” or Muslim head covering is big business in Malaysia these days.

It is worn for reasons of modesty, but the plethora of hijab available today makes them a fashion statement as well.

Online sellers do very well in Malaysia, marketing their items on Facebook or Instagram. The online stores are available 24 hours, every day of the year, giving physical business set-ups a run for their money.

Further boosting business for online hijab sellers is the number of celebrities who have taken on the head covering, modelling them on television, in fancy magazines and on billboards.

Online hijab storeowners only need a smartphone or laptop to update their collection and interact with customers  wherever they are.

Some may have reservations about buying clothing items online. There is the chance that the on-screen colour varies from the real item, and sometimes, specifications may differ too.

However, many find the trade-offs worth it. Customers can browse through the stores at their own location and convenience. They do not have to put up with traffic jams, lack of parking space, or long lines at the cashier. Furthermore, payment is just a few clicks away.

It is apparent to many that there is big money in the business. Every other day new online hijab stores are mushrooming.

Twenty-nine-year-old Rabiah Wan Zulkifli knows that competition is stiff but believes there is still room for her business, Raudah Wide Shawl.

“I’m not bothered by the number of online hijab sellers these days, as this gives me an idea of what the buying trend is.

“There are so many choices today that cater to so many differing tastes. Sellers now also upload online hijab tutorials to give potential buyers ideas on the many ways to style their hijab”, she said.

When asked if her business would stand the test of time, as many others were also marketing similar styles, Rabiah said she believed that there was something for everyone.

She provides added value to her offerings by providing free shipping and keeping up with the latest trends.

The business is not Rabiah’s primary source of income as she is working as a flight attendant in a major airline. However, she does not find it a problem to make time to develop her business.

“I take all challenges in stride”, she said. — Bernama

This article first appeared in The Edge Financial Daily, on November 6, 2014.