In recent times, Malaysians are struggling to match their stagnant wages with the cost of living, which has been steadily increasing over the years.
A netizen recently took to social media to voice dissatisfaction over food stalls raising their prices for no apparent reason and urged an assemblyperson to step in.
In turn, the assemblyperson offered a rather blunt reply as to why he can’t do so.
50 sen hike for noodles
The netizen posted two photos in the Facebook group 万挠人 Rawang, where it showed two noodle stalls which had a similar notice pasted on its menu.
The notice informed customers that due to ingredients being more expensive, the stall would be increasing its prices by 50 sen effective Jan 1, 2026.
It also promised customers that the quality and quantity will not be compromised and thanked them for their support and understanding.
However, the netizen wouldn’t have any of it and slammed the stalls for increasing prices as they pleased whenever the new year kicks off.
He also tagged Rawang assemblyperson Chua Wei Kiat in the comments, saying the price hike was against what the federal government had previously promised, that is to ease Malaysians’ financial burdens.
The netizen also urged Chua to contact the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Costs of Living (KPDN) to probe the stalls.
‘If it’s expensive, don’t eat’
In response, Chua explained in a Facebook post why it wasn’t his call to take action against the stalls for increasing prices.
He explained this was because Malaysia is a country that operates under a free market system where prices are determined not only by costs, but also by consumer response.
“For example, when everyone rushes to buy RM15 coffee, consumers are telling businesses that RM15 is a price they can accept.
“Other businesses then follow this signal to maximise their own profits,” he explained.
Chua then followed it up by offering the netizen a piece of advice.
If you find it expensive, you don’t have to consume it. Instead, look for cheaper alternatives. When businesses start to lose money over their prices, they will reflect and adjust on their own.
“What the government controls are the costs and prices of basic raw materials. As long as basic input costs are kept under control, prices won’t rise uncontrollably,” he added.
Chua also jokingly reminded the netizen that politicians like him have no control of the market as Malaysia isn’t a communist country.
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