Sarawak consumers grateful that prices have gone down

KUCHING: Consumers are heaving a sigh of relief as they find that most goods are priced lower three days after the implementation of the zero-rated Goods and Services Tax (GST).

Most were grateful and satisfied as they found that many supermarkets had slashed prices of items.

Housewife Faridah Seli, 54, said she noticed the prices of goods at three supermarkets in Petra Jaya had decreased following the implementation of the new tax rate, which started on June 1.

“I am grateful for the reduced prices of goods, particularly since Hari Raya Aidilfitri is approaching.

“Most of the essential items I bought had their prices slashed up to RM1. Out of the three supermarkets I visited, the one at Metro City has the lowest prices,” she said.

A survey by the New Straits Times Press showed that many essential items were now cheaper.

A tray of 30 Grade A eggs, which was previously priced at RM12.10 is now sold for RM11.39.

The same number of Grade B eggs, which wa s previo usly priced at RM11.80 was now RM10.89, while Grade C eggs, which was previously priced at RM11.30 was now RM10.39.

Red chillies, which were sold between RM15.90 and RM17 per kg before the zero-rated GST, are now sold for between RM13.99 and RM14.99 per kg.

Pensioner Kipli Abdul Rahman, 70, hoped the prices would remain low as it would alleviate the burden of consumers.

“In the past, many people were affected by the increase in prices, but now the prices are slightly reduced (due to the new GST rate).

“I hope it will stay that way so we will not be burdened by the cost of living,” said Kipli.