Nasi Lemak vendors in Malaysia may be forced to raise prices to RM2 per pack next year if the cost of coconut milk continues to climb. Coconut milk is a key ingredient in preparing the beloved dish, and its price has been steadily increasing.
Soaring Ingredient Prices
According to Kosmo!, Norita Ismail, a 65-year-old vendor, shared that the cost of coconut milk recently rose from RM10 per kilogram to RM11-RM12.
Her daily requirement of six to seven kilograms produces 1,000 packs, currently priced at RM1.50 each.
“Earlier this year, coconut milk was RM8 to RM9 per kilogram. If prices keep rising, we’ll have no choice but to increase the price to RM2 per pack,” she said.
Norita noted that any hike would likely happen after Hari Raya Aidilfitri, as vendors are mindful of customers’ financial situations.
The rising cost of other ingredients, such as rice, fish, anchovies, dried chilies, and onions, is adding to the strain.
Ilyana Mohamad, another vendor, also expressed concern.
She plans to raise her price for Nasi Lemak with anchovies and fish to RM1.80 from RM1.50 while keeping portions unchanged.
Coconut milk prices in public markets now range from RM12 to RM15 per kilogram, but sellers haven’t explained why costs are rising,” she said.
Vendors are struggling to absorb the growing expenses, leaving price increases as their only viable option.
