Bargain hunting: Shoppers looking at various saree designs while shopping at Little India in George Town. Consumer groups have pointed out that the prices of many items used for Deepavali have gone up tremendously. — CHAN BOON KAI/The Star
PETALING JAYA: The Deepavali price control scheme is expected to be announced soon but consumer groups are already seeing red over the price hikes for essential items ahead of the festive season.
Consumers’ Association of Penang (CAP) senior education officer NV Subbarow said the price of muruku flour has increased from RM4.50 to RM6.50.
He said the price of 1kg of gingelly oil has increased from RM15 to RM21 and garlic from RM6 to RM14.
“Some sellers are selling 1kg of mutton for RM100. The government must control the prices,” Subbarow said, suggesting that the government come up with Deepavali Rahmah sales.
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“This is because the prices of many items used for Deepavali have gone up tremendously; even vegetable prices are increasing.
“Those celebrating Deepavali are paying more for essential items, especially for preparing delicacies. The B40 group will be the most affected.
“As such, the government should consider having Deepavali Rahmah sales,” he added.
Federation of Malaysian Consumers Association (Fomca) chief executive officer Saravanan Thambirajah expressed concern over the recent surge in the prices of essential goods, particularly since the ringgit has strengthened against the US dollar.
“While we recognise that exchange rate fluctuations are often short-term and may not significantly impact prices immediately, we emphasise the importance of price stability, especially during festive seasons.
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“This stability is crucial to prevent businesses from exploiting market conditions and taking advantage of increased consumer demand.
“The rising cost of essential goods will disproportionately affect the B40 and M40 households, who are already struggling with the rising cost of living.
“These families may find it increasingly difficult to afford traditional items needed for Deepavali celebrations.
“The financial pressure not only risks dampening the festive mood but may also limit participation in cultural practices and social gatherings, which are vital for community well-being,” Saravanan added.
He said Fomca is actively monitoring consumer complaints and market developments to identify the unjustified price hikes.
“We will work closely with government agencies and other consumer groups to report unfair pricing practices and advocate for stronger enforcement of the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act.
“We also urge the government to enhance transparency among traders and wholesalers to ensure that consumers are treated fairly, especially during festive periods when demand surges,” he added.
Saravanan said the group has received complaints from consumers, especially concerning price increases for rice, cooking oil, certain vegetables and onions.
“These are essential items and the sudden price surge is causing considerable concern among consumers.
“Fomca will ensure that all complaints are promptly forwarded to the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry for further investigation,” he said.
He said wholesalers and retailers play a significant role in determining prices, adding that it is essential that they act responsibly.
“Although some price adjustments may be related to supply chain challenges, unjustified increases must be curbed.”
He urged the ministry to double its market surveillance and enforcement efforts during festive periods to prevent opportunistic pricing.
“Enhanced oversight during these high-demand periods will ensure fair market practices and protect consumers from unnecessary financial burdens,” he added.
Deputy Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Fuziah Salleh had said the price control scheme would be announced on Oct 24.
“Consumers can report using our various complaint channels, including Aduan Suri QR code,” she said.
She said that in Perak, Selangor, and Kuala Lumpur, there has been a notable increase in the prices of three out of the 19 reported items in these states, specifically cardamom, turmeric powder and black pepper.
“According to data collected by KPDN, there has been no hike in spice prices that exceeds a 10% range.
“However, the information from the four monitored states confirms an increase for these three specific items,” she added.
Fuziah said some states have recorded price increases, while others have seen decreases or maintained the same prices as in previous years.
The average price range is about the same across these states, with no extraordinary price hikes observed in any state compared to others.
According to her, traders have indicated that the price increase is primarily due to rising transportation costs and limited supply, particularly for imported goods like onions and cardamom.
In response, the enforcement team has issued a Written Notice under Section 21 of the Section 21 of the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act to gather detailed information regarding the root causes of these price increases, Fuziah noted.
“Traders are given a three-day window to respond to the notice issued by KPDN in Penang,” she said.
