In a recent incident that has stirred discussions online, an elderly Malaysian uncle, running a vegetarian stall, faced criticism for charging RM4.50 for a vegetarian meal.
Slammed for charging RM4.50 for veggie rice
In a XiaoHongShu post, the son of the stall owner, who prefers to be known as Chef Yoong, recounted an incident where a customer, after viewing the prices, expressed their discontent, arguing that they could find a more affordable version of vegetable rice elsewhere.

The dissatisfied customer then departed without making a purchase, leaving the stall owner feeling disheartened.
“Luckily, another customer saw and decided to buy it,” he wrote.
Read also: 53yo Uncle Who Has Been Selling Economy Rice For 30 Years Explains Why It Is Not “Economic” Anymore
Reasons for the increased cost of vegetarian food during the Nine Emperor Gods Festival
He also shed light on the challenges faced by vegetarian vendors, especially during the Nine Emperor Gods Festival.
He provided insights into the reasons behind the seemingly higher prices during this period.
Speaking to Weirdkaya, Chef Yoong said that the prices have gone up for this year as the cost of vegetarian ingredients has risen by 15% to 25%.

“This is mainly due to the increase in the prices of raw materials like beans and buckwheat. For instance, rice that used to cost RM29.50 for 10kg now costs around RM38.50.
Similarly, rice noodles that were priced at RM16.50 for 3.5kg are now between RM19.50 to RM20.00.”
Price hike due to rising cost
Also, many have also taken to social media to share how expensive was the food during the Nine Emperor Gods Festival, to which Chef Yoong explained that one of the reasons for the price hike, especially during the rainy season, is the increase in vegetable prices.
“Besides, I’ve learned that some vendors are invited to set up stalls during the Nine Emperor Gods Festival, where the rent is not cheap. This might lead to higher food prices. “
“My father was once invited but declined as he felt it would inconvenience his regular customers in the area.
I hope that the efforts of many in promoting vegetarianism aren’t overshadowed by a few reports labeling it as ‘expensive’. We shouldn’t generalize and tarnish the entire community,” he told WeirdKaya.
“Eating vegetarian food is not expensive”
Chef Yoong also emphasized that the main point of his post wasn’t to highlight where his father’s stall is located, as it has been operating in the Bandar Hilir area for over 30 years.
Instead, he hopes to raise awareness that not all vegetarian food is exorbitantly priced and wishes to dispel the misconception that “eating vegetarian food is expensive.”
He expressed gratitude for the understanding and hopes for a more informed perspective on vegetarianism.
