Ninso Malaysia has become my go-to destination for affordable shopping in Johor Bahru, especially when I need quirky gifts and fun finds that won’t break the bank. Located right across from Eco-Shop in Plentong, this value store proves that budget shopping doesn’t have to be boring.
Why Ninso is Worth a Visit
Think of Ninso as the fun cousin of your typical budget store. While most value shops feel purely functional, Ninso Malaysia brings personality to bargain hunting. The aisles burst with colourful items that make you smile – from capybara plushies to novelty stationery that screams “buy me!”
Previously priced at RM2.40 per item, then bumped to RM2.60, Ninso has recently rolled back many products to just RM2 for a limited period. Check out their Facebook page for updates.
Interestingly, Valu$, which many Singaporeans will be familiar with, has also set up shop inside Ninso Plentong. This is actually their very first outlet in Malaysia. But to be honest, nothing really caught my eye because you can get the same products in Singapore, and the prices here didn’t seem like much of a steal — pretty close to what we already pay back home.
The Perfect Shopping Combo
Here’s my JB shopping hack: I always hit Eco-Shop first for household essentials, then cross the road to Ninso Malaysia for the entertaining stuff. One Grab ride covers both stores, maximising both time and money.
Eco-Shop handles my practical needs – cleaning supplies, kitchen basics, everyday items. Ninso satisfies my inner child with its treasure hunt atmosphere.
Some of My Favourite Finds at Ninso
Gift Heaven for Every Occasion
Ninso Malaysia excels at affordable gifting solutions. Their mug collection alone could solve your present dilemmas for months. Designs range from “Best Mum” classics to quirky teacher appreciation mugs.
Pro tip: Pair a mug with some candies or biscuits for an instant gift under RM10. Perfect for colleagues, teachers, or last-minute party presents.
Capybara Madness
The capybara section deserves its own postcode. Plushies, notebooks, pouches, keychains – if it can feature a capybara, Ninso probably stocks it. These world’s largest rodents have captured hearts globally, and Ninso capitalises perfectly on this trend.
I genuinely had to exercise restraint here. The entire shelf called to me like sirens to sailors, haha!
Stationery Paradise
Pen lovers, prepare yourselves. Ninso Malaysia stocks everything from basic gel pens to elaborate novelty designs. The stationery section rivals proper bookshops but at fraction of the cost.
Beyond pens, you’ll find:
- Cute notebooks and planners
- Colourful sticky notes
- Fun erasers and sharpeners
- Character-themed folders
- Washi tape collections
- and so much more
Traditional Tableware
Ninso surprises with its selection of traditional rooster design plates and bowls. These classic patterns bring vintage charm to modern kitchens at budget prices.
Pop Culture Collectibles
Anime and mythology fans, pay attention. Ninso stocks collectibles featuring Nezha and Wukong – legendary figures from Chinese mythology recently popularised through films and games. These desk-worthy figurines and themed items make excellent gifts for fans of Chinese culture or anyone who appreciates detailed character design.
Wellness & Practical Items
Surprisingly, Ninso stocks various health patches – menstrual pain relief, back pain, knee pain, even dubious “fat-burning” patches (take those claims lightly). Plus sweat pads for Malaysia’s humid climate.
These items prove handy for travel or building care packages for friends dealing with specific issues.
Ninso Shopping Tips
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Check first: Peek at their Facebook page to see if the RM2 promo is on—it’s the best way to stretch your ringgit.
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Bring a bag: You’ll want one, especially in the gift and stationery aisles.
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Seasonal gems: Festive periods bring themed items you won’t find any other time.
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Gift bundle hack: Combine a mug with biscuits or a notebook with pens for a complete gift under RM10.
Final Thought
If you’re heading to JB soon, plan for both. Start at Eco-Shop for your cleaning supplies, kitchen essentials, and practical buys, then swing over to Ninso to browse their mugs, stationery, plushies, collectibles, and quirky little finds. Just be warned — you might walk out with more capybaras than you thought you needed. 😉