Ramadan bazaar traders choose customers over profits

JOHOR BARU: Despite the rising cost of living, some traders at Ramadan bazaars here have opted not to increase food prices for fear of losing customers.

They said they would maintain the prices from last year and absorb the extra expenses.

Mohd Kamil Ahmad, 39, who sells pasta and steak, said many customers do not understand their predicament when it comes to food pricing.

“Last year, I sold a container of spaghetti for RM10. I set the price after taking into account the cost of ingredients at that time.

“This year, the prices of the ingredients have gone up by about 30%.

“However, if I increase the price, people may not want to buy. So, I had to stick to the old price despite knowing that it would reduce my profit margin,” he said in an interview.

Mohd Kamil said he was able to reduce his operating costs as he no longer runs a restaurant.

“I decided to shut it down for good late last year and run a home-based business as I could no longer cope with the costs such as rental, utilities and salary for workers.

“Now, I am running the business with my wife and without any workers, so I’m able to cut down on cost and maintain the old price,” he said.

Helmi Razali, 21, who sells drinks, also decided to maintain the prices.

“People are very sensitive when it comes to prices these days, due to the rising cost of living. But I hope customers understand that it is not easy for traders too, as we are just trying to earn a living.

“If the price is unreasonably high, then it is fair for them to complain.

“However, if it is just a little higher, I hope they know it is because we are also paying more to make the food or drinks,” he said.

Johor Consumers Movement Association chairman Md Salleh Sadijo said it was good that traders are considerate.

“At least, businesses, including Ramadan bazaar traders, will now think twice before increasing food prices.

“They know that people can easily complain to the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry or on social media,” he said.

Asked if the stronger purchasing power of Singaporeans would lead to some traders increasing food prices, he said it was unlikely.

“Singaporeans rarely go to Ramadan bazaars. Normally, they will visit these bazaars if they happen to be in the vicinity.

“Besides, the Singaporean crowd is usually here during the weekends. Traders need the support of locals to keep their businesses afloat,” he said.