The car park outside Fleximart in Section 7, Shah Alam, was already full by 10am as families, retirees and the curious gathered at the entrance, many holding their phones to snap photos with former economy minister Rafizi Ramli.

Inside, the aroma of curry and freshly brewed coffee filled the air as people streamed through the aisles, some browsing the grocery racks while others queued at the cafe counter.