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The Star
6 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Cautious spending keeping costs manageable amid new SST rate
PETALING JAYA: One month after the scope of the Sales and Service Tax (SST) was expanded, some households have reported a slight increase in expenses, while others did not. For lecturer Muhammad Syafiq Imran Abdul Rahim, his grocery bill for July has seen an increase of about RM40. 'I usually spend about RM400 a month, and I've noticed an increase last month (July). 'Subsidised items like eggs and chicken are still affordable, but items like fruits have seen some differences,' the 31-year-old from Ipoh said. 'It used to cost me about RM9 for 10 green apples, but it's about RM11 now. 'While it's not a huge jump and still manageable for me, I think it's important to spend moderately,' he added. Auxiliary policeman M. Moganadass, 48, said his household spending has remained fairly consistent, though he estimates that there has been a 15% increase overall. 'Our monthly groceries used to be around RM500, but we're spending a bit more now,' he said. 'We mostly eat at home now and try to cut back on eating out,' he added. Retiree N. Manimaran, 67, said his grocery bill for July has also increased slightly to about RM520 from about RM500 in previous months. While describing the increase as insignificant, he said he will try his best to keep his expenditure to a minimum. 'I will try to avoid imported goods or items like avocados. I do hope the government could reconsider the SST rate, which would benefit the broader population. 'Governments worldwide are struggling with their economies, but reducing tax could really help ease the people's burden,' he added. Personal assistant R. Chitra, 46, said she noticed an increase in her household spending, particularly on groceries and medical treatment. 'The cost of treatment at private clinics is no longer within RM100, and it has gone up beyond that. This is especially burdensome for families with children. 'Groceries from mid-range supermarkets have also become more expensive. For example, the price of breakfast cereal went up from RM2.15 to RM3.45, while powdered coconut milk (santan) rose from around RM1.20 to RM2.30,' she said. Chitra added that although these may seem like small items, they contribute significantly to the overall increase in grocery expenses. To cope with rising costs, Chitra said she adjusted her spending, prioritising basic necessities and having more home-cooked meals. 'I have cut down on eating out. Instead, I stock up on basic ingredients and cook more at home,' she said. The mother of three also urged the government to place more emphasis on maximising the country's natural resources for economic benefit. 'Malaysia has lost its focus on agriculture and now we (the people) are facing the consequences. 'We have an abundance of natural resources, especially in agriculture, which could help increase national revenue if better managed,' she said. Contractor Zipo A. Aziz, 51, said despite the SST prices, his grocery has remained stable. 'It has been nearly a month, and I still have not seen grocery prices go up. 'In fact, I remain firm in my choice to support local products instead of spending unnecessarily on imported goods. 'I believe the choice lies in our hands. As consumers, we need to be smart in making decisions by choosing to spend within our means and buy wisely,' he said. Lee Li Lian from Shah Alam said she too has not seen much of a difference in her expenses. 'There wasn't much of a difference so far when I went shopping last weekend. I guess being mindful helps,' said the 38-year-old content executive.
The Star
17-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
State's top rank in English proficiency reflects good education, economic potential
PERAK residents believe that history, education system, and cultural ties are behind the state's top rank in English proficiency nationwide. Lecturer Muhammad Syafiq Imran Abdul Rahim, 31, believes that English fluency in Perak can be traced to British colonial times when many locals had to learn the language to work in tin mines. 'Even after Independence, many elders saw English as a global language and encouraged their children to learn it,' he said when interviewed by StarMetro. English usage in the state remains high, especially in tourist spots, he pointed out. 'Walk through the night markets or Pasar Karat and you'll hear elderly traders speaking fluent English. 'This reflects how seriously the older generation embraced the language, laying a strong foundation that continues today,' he added. Muhammad Syafiq Imran says English fluency in Perak can be traced to British colonial times. According to the EF English Proficiency Index (EPI) 2024, Perak achieved a score of 585, making it the highest-ranked Malaysian state. The globally recognised index evaluates the English skills of adults in over 100 countries. Based on the index scoring system, proficiency levels are divided into five categories. A score of 600 and above reflects a very high level of proficiency. A mark in the 550 to 599 range indicates a high level of proficiency. A moderate level score is between 500 and 549, a low level score is from 450 to 499, and a very low score is below 450. Human resource executive Sharieza Sani, 40, said the state's English proficiency could also be traced to its mission schools legacy. 'Back then, many schools used English as the main medium for learning and communication. 'That gave pupils a solid foundation to build on. 'We have always lived side by side with people from different backgrounds. 'So, English became the common thread helping us understand one another better,' he said. Uma believes English fluency in Perak will enable its tourism sector to flourish even more. S. Uma, 54, a salesperson, described the state's top ranking as a proud milestone. 'With our state now leading the nation in English proficiency, I believe our tourism sector will flourish even more. 'When language is no longer a barrier, it creates a better overall experience for international tourists,' she added. Non-governmental organisation Ipoh City Watch president Dr Richard Ng praised Perak's achievement. 'It reflects a combination of effective education, community engagement, digital access, and economic drivers, all fostering a culture where English proficiency is seen as a key to success. 'Activities such as debates and public speaking competitions are commonly held,' he said. 'English is also widely-used in daily life, while access to English media is more prevalent in urban and semi-urban areas. 'I hope the state will continue investing in English education while promoting multilingual learning. 'The state should leverage on this proficiency to attract international business and tourism, and share best practices with other states,' he added. Malaysian English Language Teaching Association (Melta) president Prof Dr Sivabala Naidu said this achievement reflected effective English language education initiatives, dedicated educators as well as a supportive leadership and learning environment within the state. 'Such progress aligns with Melta's objectives to enhance English language teaching and learning nationwide,' he said. While Perak led nationally, he said there was room to elevate its standing to the 'Very High Proficiency' category. To achieve this, Prof Sivabala said the state could consider investing in quality continuous professional development for English language teachers based on ground-level needs. He said there should be more comprehensive programmes that developed all four language skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing. 'There is also the need to equip schools with modern teaching and learning resources such as language labs, and access to digital learning tools. 'This may need support from local corporate partners. 'Consider extracurricular activities that promote the use of English in real-life contexts and Highly Immersive Programmes in all schools,' he added. Parent Action Group for Education (Page) chairman Datin Noor Azimah Abdul Rahim said Perak's leading position in English proficiency was a testament to its effective educational strategies. 'Perak's achievement inspires other states in Malaysia to prioritise English language education in a globalised world,' she said, expressing hope that Perak would continue investing in English language education. 'Leverage proficiency for economic growth to attract international businesses and promote tourism. 'Perak is ready and able to be the mover for the Northern Economic Corridor and support Penang in the semiconductor industry. 'It will be most unfortunate if this high English proficiency is not fully capitalised on,' said Noor Azimah.
