30-04-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Malaysians feel the pinch as prices of favourite dishes rise
HL: Malaysians feel the pinch as prices of favourite dishes rise
By Ameen Hazizi, Nasha Alysa Makmal
KUALA LUMPUR: As the cost of everyday Malaysian favourites such as roti canai and nasi lemak continues to rise, many citizens are finding it increasingly difficult to stretch their salaries.
According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM), the price of roti canai has surged by 71.1 per cent since 2011, while nasi lemak has increased by more than 81 per cent.
The ripple effects of these price hikes are being felt at both dining tables and on payslips across the nation.
Former oil and gas executive Suhaili Kipli, 68, believes the rising cost of food is driven by broader economic pressures rather than profiteering.
"The issue is the rising cost of living. Fishermen and farmers also need better incomes - it's a chain reaction," he said.
From his experience as a former employer, Suhaili said business owners face challenges in sustaining wage increases.
"Raising salaries isn't a simple fix, it significantly increases overheads," he added.
He said that the minimum wage of RM1,800 remains insufficient, particularly for urban dwellers in cities like Kuala Lumpur, where living costs are considerably higher.
"In Kuala Lumpur, RM1,800 just isn't enough. If that's your salary, you're better off moving back to the village. City life comes with tolls, fuel costs, and high rent. That wage simply isn't sustainable," he said.
Wellness coach and business owner May Tang, 45, said that while she is not personally affected by the rising prices due to her business income, she recognises the strain on others.
"Food prices have gone up, but so have the sellers' costs - so I understand.
"I usually cook my own meals, not because of the cost, but for health reasons. Still, if I had to choose, cooking is definitely cheaper. But I know not everyone has that option, especially if their salary hasn't gone up," she said.
For younger Malaysians, the pressure is just as real. Car sales advisor Pravenkumar Rajasegaran, 26, said food prices have increased beyond expectations.
"My salary hasn't really changed, so I've had to switch to cheaper meals.
"Sometimes I feel like dining at a nice restaurant, but when I see the prices, I change my mind and go to a mamak restaurant instead.
"It's not always what I want, but it's what I can afford," he said.
Aqilah Mohd Zairi, 21, said that while food is still affordable for her now, things tend to get tight toward the end of the month.
"For me, food is still affordable, but if the economy worsens, it could get harder. By the end of the month, money feels more limited.
"I still eat out because, at times, the grocery bill ends up being more expensive than eating out," she added.
Despite Malaysia's overall inflation rate easing to 1.8 per cent in 2024, according to DOSM, the cost of essential goods - from coconuts to cockles - has risen sharply over the past decade.
While economic indicators may suggest stability, for many Malaysians, the everyday reality remains increasingly difficult.
Keywords: News Nst Malaysians Cost Of Living Affordability Food Prices Urban Living Prices Hiking Food Costs Wage Stagnation Everyday Meals Economic Pressure Budget Meals
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