GEORGE TOWN: From fancy chopsticks to pampering sessions at hair salons, the choices are endless for those seeking to indulge their mothers this Sunday.

       And businesses are “banking” on Malaysians who are planning to celebrate Mother’s Day by offering promotions and throwing in free gifts.

       There’s an added twist this year. Many of these stores are pitching in for Father’s Day as well, which takes place on June 19, billing their special deals as “Parents’ Day”.

       “This is the first time we are doing this. We want to make Parents’ Day a memorable one for our customers this year,” said Foong Wei Heong Restaurant manager YM Ooi, 44.

       To entice customers, he said the restaurant is giving away a free burnt cheese cake for those who order from the Parents’ Day special menu.

       Penang Koosoo Kwong Choon Tong Restaurant and Tea Shop Association chairman Vinah Yee noted that some restaurants will be giving away free flowers, cakes, longevity peach bao (known as shoutao), and even fancy chopsticks and spoons to lure in customers.

       “We are thankful that business is slowly picking up.

       “Since the reopening of international borders, many people working overseas are coming home to mark the occasion with their families after two years of being away.

       “With the freebies, we hope that our customers will create more memories with their loved ones,” she said.

       A random check showed a variety of Mother’s Day promotions at eateries, hair salons and even hospitals.

       One private hospital is inviting people to send their mothers and fathers for a comprehensive health check at discounted prices of between RM454 and RM1,397.

       Several hair salons in a local mall joined hands to promote Mother’s and Father’s Day together, offering a “Parents’ Day” haircut at just RM10 for the first 10 customers daily per outlet from May 8 to June 19.

       As for food, the choices are endless.

       For instance, a Western food restaurant is giving a 25% discount on all platters on Mother’s Day.

       Another restaurant has set up a “feast package” for four to five people at RM168, with a menu featuring salmon, seafood chowder and cruffins (croissant and muffin) with marshmallows.